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Report on ICT Initiatives and Research Capacity in IST-Africa Partner Countries
Version 2 31 January 2016
Report on ICT Initiatives and Research Capacity, v2, 31 January 2016
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Contributors IIMC International Information Management Corporation Ltd, Ireland Miriam Cunningham, Paul Cunningham
Ministerio da Ciencia e Tecnologia, Angola Antonio Alcochete
Ministry of Transport and Communications, Botswana Phodiso Phole
Ministere de l’Enseignement Superieur et de la Recherche Scientifique, Burundi Augustin Nsabiyumva
Agence Nationale des Technologies de l’Information et de la Communication, Cameroon Peter Mokube, Njei Check
ITIDA, Egypt Dr Haitham Hamza
Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, Ethiopia Senait Berihu, Dr Leulseged Alemie
Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Kenya Jacob Kamwaria Njagih, Dr Eric Mwangi
Ministry of Communications, Science and Technology, Lesotho Lieketseng Tjokotsi, Lefa Thamae
National Commission for Science and Technology, Malawi GIft Kadzamira, Ebony Msikawanthu
National Computer Board, Mauritius Dan Faugoo, Ashwin Seegolam, Iqbal Agowun
Instituto Nacional de Tecnologias de Informacao e Comunicacao, Mozambique Zauria Saifodine
National Commission for Science and Technology, Namibia Ebenhezer Kauhonina
Ministère de l'Enseignement Supérieur et de la Recherche, Senegal Toumane Doumbouya
Department of Science & Technology, South Africa Peacemaker Dlamini
Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Swaziland Rejoice Maseko
Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH), Tanzania Mauridi Abubakari
Ministere de l'Enseignement Superieur et de la Recherche Scientifique, Tunisia Prof. Noureddine Hamdi
Uganda National Council for Science and Technology Loi Namugenyi, Dr. Maxwell Otim
Acknowledgements The IST-Africa Consortium wish to acknowledge the support provided by various organisations in Botswana, Burundi, Cameroon, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Senegal, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda in sourcing background information for this report.
IST-Africa 2014 – 2015 is co-funded as a Specific Support Action by the European Commission under the ICT Programme of Framework Programme 7 (FP7) – Contract No. 611795. The views expressed in this document are those of the authors and contributors, and do not necessarily reflect the official European Commission's view on the subject. .
Disclaimer The information and opinions contained in this report have been compiled or arrived at by the IST-Africa Consortium in good faith from sources believed to be reliable. However, no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made as to their accuracy, completeness or correctness. The IST-
Report on ICT Initiatives and Research Capacity, v2, 31 January 2016
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Africa Consortium accepts no liability whatsoever for any direct or consequential loss arising from any use of this report or its contents.
Edited and Published by IIMC International Information Management Corporation Ltd ISBN: 978-1-905824-47-2
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................ 7
1.1 CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVES ................................................................................................... 7 1.2 METHODOLOGY .................................................................................................................... 8 1.3 ICT ENABLING ENVIRONMENT AND ICT INITIATIVES ............................................................... 8 1.4 NATIONAL RESEARCH PRIORITIES AND INITIAL MAPPING TO HORIZON 2020.......................... 18 1.5 NATIONAL PARTICIPATION IN FP7 ........................................................................................ 36 1.6 NATIONAL PARTICIPATION IN HORIZON 2020 AND RESULTS FROM ICT-39-2015 ................... 37 1.7 CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATIONS................................................................................... 43
2. ANGOLA ...................................................................................................................................... 48
2.1. INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................ 48 2.2 ICT BACKGROUND.............................................................................................................. 49 2.3. CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS................................................................................ 52 2.4. NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION ................................ 54
3. REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA ................................................................................................... 57
3.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................... 57 3.2 ICT BACKGROUND.............................................................................................................. 58 3.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ........................................................................... 60 3.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION............................ 65
4. REPUBLIC OF BURUNDI ........................................................................................................ 69
4.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................... 69 4.2 ICT BACKGROUND.............................................................................................................. 69 4.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS........................................................................... 71 4.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION............................ 72
5. REPUBLIC OF CAMEROON ................................................................................................... 77
5.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................... 77 5.2 ICT BACKGROUND.............................................................................................................. 78 5.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ........................................................................... 80 5.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION............................ 85
6. EGYPT...................................................................................................................................... 94
6.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................... 94 6.2 ICT BACKGROUND.............................................................................................................. 95 6.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ........................................................................... 96 6.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION.......................... 101
7. ETHIOPIA ............................................................................................................................... 112
7.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 112 7.2 ICT BACKGROUND............................................................................................................ 113 7.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ......................................................................... 115 7.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION.......................... 119
8. REPUBLIC OF KENYA .......................................................................................................... 127
8.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 127 7.2 ICT BACKGROUND............................................................................................................ 128 8.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ......................................................................... 130 8.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION.......................... 136
9. KINGDOM OF LESOTHO ...................................................................................................... 147
9.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 147 9.2 ICT BACKGROUND............................................................................................................ 148 9.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ......................................................................... 150
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9.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION.......................... 159
10. MALAWI ............................................................................................................................. 166
10.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 166 10.2 ICT BACKGROUND ........................................................................................................... 167 10.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ......................................................................... 169 10.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION.......................... 179 10.4.4 MAPPING TO H2020 THEMES ............................................................................................ 181
11. MAURITIUS ........................................................................................................................ 185
11.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 185 11.2 ICT BACKGROUND............................................................................................................ 186 11.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ......................................................................... 188 11.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION.......................... 196
12. REPUBLIC OF MOZAMBIQUE.......................................................................................... 223
12.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 223 12.2 ICT BACKGROUND............................................................................................................ 224 12.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ......................................................................... 225 12.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION.......................... 229
13. REPUBLIC OF NAMIBIA ................................................................................................... 234
13.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 234 13.2 ICT BACKGROUND............................................................................................................ 235 13.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ......................................................................... 236 13.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION.......................... 239
14. REPUBLIC OF SENEGAL ................................................................................................. 244
14.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 244 14.2 ICT BACKGROUND............................................................................................................ 245 14.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ......................................................................... 245 14.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION.......................... 250
15. REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA........................................................................................ 253
15.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 253 15.2 ICT BACKGROUND............................................................................................................ 254 15.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ......................................................................... 257 15.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION.......................... 259
16. SWAZILAND....................................................................................................................... 274
16.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 274 16.2 ICT BACKGROUND............................................................................................................ 274 16.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ......................................................................... 276 16.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION.......................... 276
17. REPUBLIC OF TANZANIA ................................................................................................ 278
17.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 278 17.2 ICT BACKGROUND............................................................................................................ 279 17.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ......................................................................... 281 17.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION.......................... 287
18. TUNISIA.............................................................................................................................. 291
18.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 291 18.2 ICT BACKGROUND............................................................................................................ 292 18.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ......................................................................... 294 18.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION.......................... 296
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19. REPUBLIC OF UGANDA................................................................................................... 308
19.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 308 19.2 ICT BACKGROUND............................................................................................................ 309 19.3 CURRENT ICT INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS ......................................................................... 310 19.4 NATIONAL ICT RESEARCH CAPACITY AND PRIORITIES FOR COOPERATION.......................... 322
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1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1.1 Context and Objectives
The IST-Africa Initiative1 is actively supporting
Research and Innovation cooperation between Africa
and Europe. It can be challenging for both European
and African researchers to access up to date
information in relation to the current situation in a
specific African country that they may wish to
collaborate with. There is also a challenge of data
fragmentation at national level.
As a result the IST-Africa Consortium have underaken
a longitudinal study across the 18 participating African
countries in North Africa (Egypt, Tunisia), West Africa
(Senegal), East Africa (Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya,
Tanzania, Uganda), Central Africa (Cameroon) and Southern Africa (Angola, Botswana, Lesotho,
Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland) since 2009 to provide a
comprehensive report that showcases achievements and current status in relation to the ICT
research environment.
This study leverages previous knowledge and provides an updated overview of the current state of
ICT and Innovation related policy making, infrastructure, initiatives, national Research prorities and
highlights research priorities that are most relevant in the context of the ICT-39 Call of Horizon 2020
(H2020) as well as providing a mapping of research priorities across H2020 thematic areas and
national partners. This assists in a better understanding of previous initiatives in key thematic areas
that have been supported, the current environment within which applications and pilots needs to be
undertaken and showcases national partners with relevant research expertise to faciliate consortia
buidling. It also provides the participating Ministries and National Councils with the opportunity to
raise awareness among public and private sector research communitiies of what is taking place in
other African Member States.
The IST-Africa partner countries have made considerable progress in terms of project participation
during FP7. It is therefore important to highlight areas for research cooperation under Horizon 2020.
It is also important that national ICT research priorities are aligned with national strategic priorities
and available expertise. This requires a regular consultation with the national Higher Education
Institutions to determine research capacity and identify how public, private and the education and
research sectors can collaborate in terms of research and implement solutions leveraging ICT that
support socio-economic development at national and regional level.
1 www.IST-Africa.org/
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The following sections outline the Methodology used, and present a summary of the ICT enabling
Environment, ICT-related Initiatives and Research Capacity in the targeted countries; National
Research Priorities, Priority areas in the context of the ICT-39 Call of H2020, an initial mapping of
research priorities to H2020 themes and a summary of participation under FP7 and Horizon 2020.
Each country chapter then provides full details.
This report is complemented by two other IST-Africa reports entitled "Report on Innovation Spaces
and Living Labs in IST-Africa Partner Countries", January 2016, ISBN No: 978-1-905824-48-9 and
“Report on ICT and Innovation-related Bilateral & Multilateral Cooperation Initiatives in IST-Africa
Partner Countries”, January 2016, ISBN No: 978-1-905824-48-9.
1.2 Methodology
This study builds on a previous study and body of knowledge collected by IST-Africa Partners
during 2009 – 2013.
The research for this report was undertaken in two stages: February to November 2014 and then
updated during October 2015 to January 2016 to reflect more recent developments. The
methodology leveraged desk research, qualitative data collection complimented by interviews with
key stakeholders in Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Cameroon, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Lesotho,
Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Senegal, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Tunisia and
Uganda, supplemented by follow up e-mails and telephone calls where appropriate.
IST-Africa partners undertook a consultation with national stakeholders from April to November
2014 and from October 2015 to January 2016 in relation to priority areas of most relevance in the
context of the Horizon 2020 ICT-39 Calls to contribute to the mapping provided.
From February to November 2014 the IST-Africa Partners organised Horizon 2020 Workshops in
Egypt (09 February, hosted by MCIT), Mauritius (07 May, hosted by NCB in the context of IST-
Africa 2015), Tunisia (22 September, hosted by MESR), Malawi (12 November, hosted by NCST),
Kenya (14 November, hosted by MoEST), Ethiopia (17 November, hosted by MCIT), Uganda (20
November, hosted by UNCST) and Burundi (24 November, hosted by MESRS). Additional
information was collected during these workshops.
1.3 ICT Enabling Environment and ICT Initiatives
This section provides an overview of available eInfrastructure, policy environment and types of
thematic ICT Initiatives ongoing in IST-Africa partner countries grouped by region of Africa. It is
clear that the available eInfrastructure has dramatically improved over the past five years with
access to fibre optic networks, national Internet Exchange points and access to submarine cables.
Table 1 provides an overview of existing and planned eInfrastructure from the perspective of access
to submarine cables, national ICT Backbone, Internet Exchange Points, PKI, National Education
and Research Network, participation in AfricaConnect, tele-centres/community centres and status in
relation to Universal Access Funds in the IST-Africa partner countries.
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North, Central and West Africa
Egypt has a vibrant research community and strong experience
in collaborative research with 29 public Universities, 33 private
Universities and more than 400 private Higher Education
Institutions. The Egyptian Government has significantly invested
in capacity building, digital literacy and certification of skills, with
over 126 IT Houses and 2,163 IT Clubs in operation around the
country. The ICT Policy (2013 – 2017) is focused on achieving sustainable socio-economic
development with key ICT sectors identified to include Digital Identity, Egypt Digital Hub, Basic
Infrastructure (Broadband, Cloud Computing, Submarine Cables), Cyber Security & eSignature,
Information Infrastructure & Digital Content, Electronics Design & Manufacturing, Legislative and
Policies Framework. There is good eInfrastructure with links to three submarine cables, a national
backbone and national Internet Exchange Point (IXP) in place. ICT Initiatives are focused on
eLearning, eHealth, eGovernment, eContent, Community Integration and ICT for people with
disabilities; Broadband Access Network and Internet of Things.
Tunisia has an active research community and strong
research base with 13 public Universities including a virtual
University, over 200 public Higher Education Institutions, over
37 public research centers and more than 60 private Higher
Education Institutions. There is a good policy Framework in
place and good eInfrastructure with links to three submarine
cables, a National backbone based on fibre optic cables and a National IXP. ICT Initiatives are
focused on eGovernment Services, eInfrastucture for Education and Research, cybersecurity,
digital content, eInfastructure for Innovation (such as Technology and Cyber Parks) and support
measure for software companies and start-ups.
Cameroon has a good research base and experience in
collaborative research with 8 public Universities, over 80
private institutions for Higher Education and several
laboratories. There is a good Policy Framework in place (ICT
Policy 2007, Electronic Communications Law, CyberSecurity
Law and Electronic Commerce Law) and the National ICT and
Telecoomuniction Strategy is currently being revised.
eInfrastructure is gradually improving with a national backbone of over 6,000 km of fibre optic cable,
a fibre optic loop in Douala with a second being laid in Yaounde (Capital) and the ongoing
establishment of a National Internet eXchange point (IXP). There are 150 operational tele-centres,
with a further 30 being put into service and 16 under construction. ICT Initiatives are pimarily
focused on eGovernment Services (including Legal and Regulatory Framework), National PKI, ICT
Significant investment in eSkills 29 Public Universities
Good eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on Learning, Health, Government, Content Creation
Strong Research base
13 Public Universities
Good eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on Education, CyberSecurity, Government, eInfrastructure
Good experience in Collaborative Research
8 Public Universities
Improving eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on eGovernment, Education, National PKI, National ID
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Programmes in Primary and Secondary Schools, National Identity Card Computerisation and
Biometric Passports.
Senegal has a good research base with six public Universities
(3 more being created), 7 private Universities, 5 public HIgher
Education Institutions and 141 private Higher Education
Institutions. There is a good Policy Framework in place to
address Electronic Transactions, Cybercrime and Data
Protection. A National Strategy for developing ICT was defined
in 2000 with the State Information Technology Agency (ADIE)
created in 2004. The Science Technology and Innovation Policy is under development. In terms of
eInfrastructure there are links to three submarine cables, all regions are connected via fibre optic,
the national backbone is under construction and SnREN (National Research and Education
Network) is supporting HEIs. ICT Initiatives are focused on eGovernment, Digital Divide, Research,
eInfastructures, Entrepreneurship and eEducation.
East Africa
Burundi is slowly building up the institutions and infrastructure
following twelve years of crisis up to 2005. There are 7 public
universities and 24 private institutions of Higher Education.
The National ICT Policy was revised and adopted in 2011, the
National Policy for Science, Technology and Innovation (STI)
adopted in 2011 with an implementation framework for 2014 - 2018 and the decree to establish the
National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation was signed in July 2014. A fibre-optic
project is currently running to provide ICT infrastructure across the country alongside development
of the National Backbone. The Burundi Education and Research Network (BERNET) has been
established and the ICT Executive Secretariat has enabled the physical Last Mile connection to the
15 core members of BERNET. ICT initiatives are currently focused on eInfrastructure and
eGovernment.
Ethiopia has a good research base and experience in
collaborative research with 31 public Universities and 42
private Higher Edudation Institutions. There is a good Policy
Framework in place with the ICT Policy and Strategy (2009),
National Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy
(2012) and ICTs in Education Implementation Strategy and
Action Plan (2010). eInfrastructure is rapidly improving with
12,000 kms of optic fibre cable radiating from central Ethiopia across the country and connecting all
cities, with the capacity to transmit 40 Gbps along with the national backbone. MCIT has
established 230 Community Information Centres and 11 community radio stations across the
country to provide information on new ICT technology transfer and implementations, healthcare,
Good Research base
6 Public Universities
Improving eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on eGovernment, Education, eInfrastructures, Digital Divide
7 Public Universities
Improving eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on eGovernment, Education, eInfrastructures
Good research base
31 Public Universities
Improving eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on eGovernment, PKI, Education, eInfrastructures
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agricultural information and education issues. ICT Initiatives are primarily focused on eGovernment
and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), eInfrastructure including EthERNet (Ethiopian Education and
Research Network), Entrepreneurship and eEducation.
Kenya has a vibrant research community and strong
experience in collaborative research with 23 fully chartered
Public Universities, 10 public University Constituent Colleges,
6 public research institutes, 17 accredited private Universities,
12 private Universities with letter of interim authority and 5
private University Colleges. There is a good Policy Framework
in place including Kenya ICT Policy 2006 (under review),
eGovernment Strategy, Kenya ICT National Master Plan 2017, Kenya Science, Technology and
Innovation (STI) Policy 2012 and Vision 2030. There is good eInfrastructure with a national fibre
optic infrastructure and links to four submarine cables. KENET is the 2nd largest NREN in Africa
supporting 115 campuses and managing the largest IP network in Kenya. ICT Initiatives are
focused on eEducation & eSkills, Digital Inclusion, Business Process Outsourcing, Local Content,
Information Security and eGovernment.
Tanzania has good research capacity with 11 Public
Universities, 17 private universities and 26 private institutions
of Higher Education. Two of the three main policies supporting
Innovation and Entrepreneurship are under revision: the
updated Science Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy will
incorporate Entrepreneurship and the National ICT Policy of
2003 is under review as part of the development of a new implementation strategy. eInfrastructure
has dramatically improved with the fibre-optic network, investment in local Internet Exchange Points,
migration to IPv6 and construction of the National ICT Backbone (NICTBB). The Tanzania
Education Research Network (TERNET) has connected 14 Institutions (min 10Mbps) to the Network
Operations Centre (NoC) at COSTECH. ICT Initiatives are primarily focused on eInfrastructure,
eEducation, eHealth, Information Society & Entrepreneurship.
Uganda has a strong research base and good experience in
collaborative research with 8 Public Universities, 33 Private
Universities, 40 public Tertiary Institutions and 51 private
Tertiary Institutions. There is an Innovation friendly Policy
Framework which has actively supported growth in the ICT
sector including Science Technology and Innovation Policy
(2009), ICT Policy 2003 (under review), Rural Communications
Development Policy and eGovernment Strategy (2011). eInfrastructure is rapidly improving with a
national backbone of over 5,000 km of fibre optic cable, National Data Transmission Backbone
Infrastructure (NBI) and Electronic Government Infrastructure (EGI) being finalised and links to three
Good experience in Collaborative Research
23 Public Universities
Good eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on eGovernment, Education, Local Content, Security
Good research capacity
11 Public Universities
Improving eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on eInfrastructure, Innovation, Education, eHealth
Good experience of Collaborative Research
8 Public Universities
Improving eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on eGovernment, eInfrastructure, Education, eHealth
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submarine cables. ICT Initiatives are primarily focused on eInfrastructure, eGovernment,
Technology-enhanced Learning, eHealth, eCommerce and ICT for Rural Development and
Entrerpreneurship.
Southern Africa
Angola has 22 Public Universities, 40 private Higher Education
Institutions and 24 research centres within public and private
HEIs. The Policy Framework includes a White Paper on ICT
(2006), National Policy on Science, Technology and Innovation
(2011), National Strategy on STI (2011) and a Strategy on
Development of Information Technology (2000 - 2010). In terms of eInfrastructure, there is a
national backbone based on fibre optic and submarine cables, an IXP, 500 telecentres and links to
five submarine cables. ICT Initiatives are primarily focused on eGovernment, Digital Divide and
Technology-enhanced Learning.
Botswana has 2 public Universities, 4 private Universities as
well as eight public Higher Education Institutes including
DVET. There is a good Policy Framework including the
Maitlamo National Policy for ICT Development (2007) and the
revised Research, Science, Technology and Innovation Policy
(2012). There is relatively good eInfrastructure with fibre-optic networks and a National Backbone.
ICT Inititatives primarily focus on Digital Divide, eGovernment, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
Lesotho is gradually increasing the focus on research with
one public university (National University of Lesotho), Lerotholi
Polytechnic, Lesotho College of Education, National Health
Training Centre and a private university (Limkokwing
University of Creative Technology). There is a good Policy
Framework including the ICT Policy (2005), Universal Access
Fund (2009), Science Technology and Innovation Policy
(2010), Communications Act (2012) and National Strategic Development Plan (2013 – 2017). The
mountaineous terrain presents challenges for eInfrastructure which is improving gradually with a
national backbone (mix of copper cables, fibre optic cables and satellite), links to two submarine
cables, IXP being established and the completion of 17 GSM network infrastructure projects with
subsidies from the Universal Access Fund. ICT Initiatives are primarily focused on eLearning,
eHealth, eGovernment, Cyber Security and eInfrastructure.
Malawi has a good research base and experience in
collaborative research with 3 Public Universities
(University of Malawi, Mzuzu University and Malawi
Unviersity of Science and Technology), 7 public
Polytechnics and specialised Colleges and 4 private
22 Public Universities
Improving eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on eGovernment, eInfrastructure, Education, Digital Divide
2 Public Universities
Good eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on eGovernment, Digital Divide, Innovation
1 Public University
Increased focus on research
Improving eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on Education, eHealth, eGovernment, Cyber Security
3 Public Universities
Increased focus on research
Improving eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on Education, eHealth, eGovernment, Digital Repositories
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Colleges. There is a good Policy Framework including the revised ICT Policy (2005) to include
Universal Access (2013), National ICT Master Plan for 2014 – 2031 (under development), Vision
2030 and Malawi Growth and Development Strategies (2011 - 2016). eInfrastructure is gradually
improving with an expanded fibre infrastructure, IXP and Last Mile Connectivity & Universal Access
projects. ICT Initiatives are primarily focused on eGovernment, eInfrastructures, eHealth,
Technology-enhanced Learning and Digital Repositories.
Mauritius has a good research base with 5 Public
Universities (UoM, UTM, UDM, MIE, Open University)
and 3 private Universities (Charles Telfair, Middlesex,
EIILM). There is a good Policy Framework including the
National ICT Strategic Plan (NICTSP), National
Broadband Policy 2012 - 2020, eGovernment Strategy
2013 - 2017 and National Cyber Security Strategy and Action Plan (2014 - 2019). eInfrastructure is
well developed across the island with a IXP, National PKI, links to three submarine cables, 264
computer clubs with free internet access and 100 public internet access points in Post Offices. ICT
Initiatives are primarily focused on eEducation, Digital Divide, eGovernment, Cyber Security,
Entrepreneurship and Green IT.
Mozambique has research capacity and a track record in
collaborative research with 2 Public Universities, 8 public
Higher Education Institutions, 10 private Universities and
22 private Higher Education Institutions. Twenty-two
institutions are dedicated to research activities, 15 of
which are government institutions and 7 private. There is
a good Policy Framework including the ICT Policy (2000) and ICT Policy Implementation Strategy
(2002). eInfrastructure is gradually improving with a National Broadband Backbone providing optical
fibre connection to all 11 provincial capitals, provincial Digital Resource Centres, an IXP in Maputo,
the Mozambique Research and Education Network and links to two submarine cables. ICT
Initiatives are primarily focused on eGovernment, eHealth, eInfrastructure, Digital Content and
Digital Divide.
Namibia is gradually increasing the focus on research
with 2 Public Higher Education Institutions (University of
Namibia, Namibia University of Science and Technology)
and one private University. There is a good Policy
Framework in place including Vision 2030; National
Development Plan 4, NRSTIP, ICT Policy (1995), eGovernment Policy (2005) and ICT in Education
Policy (2005). eInfrastructure is improving with fibre optic cables connections to all major towns,
investment in a nationalwide terrestrial fibre backbone infrastructure, IXP, Xnet (NREN) and links to
two submarine cables. ICT Initiatives include eEducation, eHealth and eGovernment.
Good research base
5 Public Universities
Good eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on Education, eGovernment, Cyber Security, Entrepreneurship, Green IT
2 Public Universities
Improving eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on eGovernment, eHealth, eInfrastructure, Digital Content, Digital Divide
2 Public Universities
Increased focus on research
Improving eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on Education, eHealth, eGovernment
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South Africa has a vibrant, well developed research
community and a good track record in collaborative
research with 25 state-funded tertiary institutions
(Universities & Universities of Technology) and 87 private
institutions of Higher Education. There is a good Policy
Framework including the ICT Policy (under review), Broadband Policy (2013), ICT RDI
Implementation Roadmap (2013) and CyberSecurity Policy. eInfrastructure for research is well
developed with TENET (Tertiary Education and Research Network of South Africa) operating the
South African National Research Network (“SANReN”), which comprises of a national backbone,
several metropolitan rings, and some dedicated long-haul circuits to connect specific research
installations. TENET provides Internet and related services to around 170 campuses of 55
institutions. ICT Initiatives focus on eInfrastructure, Digital Access, eSkills, Smartcard IDs and TV
White Spaces Trials.
Swaziland is gradually increasing the focus on research with
one public university and three private Higher Education
institutions. There is a good policy infrastructure focused on the
adoption of ICT to support socio-economic development (ICT
Policy 2004, National Information and Communication
Infrastructure Policy 2006, Science Technology and Innovation Policy 2012 and Swaziland
Communications Commission Act 2013). eInfrastructure is gradually improving with a fibre optic
backbone network, IXP established in 2014, connection to two submarine cables through
Mozambique and South Africa and free internet access in schools and hospitals through ITU. ICT
Initaitives are primarily focused on eGovernment and development of the Science and Technology
Park with funding from Taiwan.
Box 1: Africa Connect & AfricaConnect 2
Africa Connect (2011 - 2015) and Africa Connect 2 (2015 - 2019), co funded by DG DEVCOare focused on developing pan-African high-capacity internet networks connected to theEuropean GÉANT network, to facilitate students, researchers and academics within Africa andbetween Africa and Europe to interconnect and share research resources and virtual tools.This is being facilitated by Regional Research Education Networks (UbuntnetAlliance,WACREN and ASREN) interconnecting National Research and Education Networks, putting innew Points of Presence and upgrading the connection to GÉANT, the pan-European network.
Connections were put in place between UbuntuNet Alliances National Research and EducationNetworks (NRENs) members in DRC, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Madagascar, Mozambique,Namibia, Rwanda, Somalia, Sudan, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia with aconnection to Europe through GÉANT during Africa Connect. During AfricaConnect 2 NRENmembers of WACREN (Western and Central Africa) and ASREN (North Africa) will beconnected.
These eInfrastructure projects come at a critical time and will support the uptake of eLearningand cloud computing as well as support virtual collaboration sharing access to resourcesbetween institutions and countries.
Well developed research community
25 Public Universities
Good eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on eInfrastructure, Education, eHealth
1 Public University
Improving eInfrastructure
ICT initiatives focused on eGovernment, eInfrastructures
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Table 1 below provides an overview of existing and planned eInfrastructure from the perspective of
access to submarine cables, national ICT Backbone, Internet Exchange Points, PKI, National
Education and Research Network, participation in AfricaConnect / AfricaConnect 2, tele-
centres/community centres and status in relation to Universal Access Funds in the IST-Africa
partner countries.
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Table 1: Overview of ICT Enabling Environment in IST-Africa Partner Countries IST-Africa Partner Country
Access to Submarine cables
National ICT Backbone
Internet Exchange Point
PKI National Education and Research Network
Participation in AfricaConnect/ AfricaConnect 2
Tele-centres/ Community centres
Universal access fund (operational)
Angola WACS, CAT3 Fibre optic Yes, AAPSI Under Preparation
ARENET & UNINET
No 500 telecentres No
Botswana EASSy, WACS Fibre optic BINX (2005) Ongoing activity.
No No 190 Govern/NGO 95 PTO Mascom 52 Post Office
Yes
Burundi EASSy, TEAMS Fibre optic Launched March 2014
No BERNET (est. 2014 – 15 members)
Yes Emerging No
Cameroon SAT3. WACS, MAINONE
Fibre optic Being established
Yes RIC AfricaConnect 2 150 operational; 30 being put into service and 15 under construction
Egypt FLAG, SMW4 and SMW3
Fibre optic CAIX (est. 2002)
Yes EUN/ENSTINET No 126 IT Houses and 2,163 IT Clubs
No
Ethiopia SEACOM Fibre optic Ongoing activity
EthERNet (est. 2001 – 22 Members)
Yes 230 Community Information Centres
Kenya TEAMS, SEACOM, EASSy, LION
Fibre optic Yes Yes KENET (est. 1999) Yes 61 Pasha Centres Yes (est.2009)
Lesotho EASSy, WIOCC Mix of copper cables, fibre optic cables and satellite
Yes (est. 2014) Yes No No 5 operational and 6 under construction
Yes
Malawi EASSy (through Tanzania and Mozambique)
Fibre optic cables
Yes (est. 2008) Yes MAREN (est. 2005)
Yes via MAREN 56 telecentres est 2010 - 2013
Yes
Mauritius SAFE, LION Fibre optic Yes (est 2006) Yes No No free internet access in 280 computer clubs and 100 public access points in Post Offices
Yes
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IST-Africa Partner Country
Access to Submarine cables
National ICT Backbone
Internet Exchange Point
PKI National Education and Research Network
Participation in AfricaConnect/ AfricaConnect 2
Tele-centres/ Community centres
Universal access fund (operational)
Mozambique EASSy, SEACOM Mix of VSAT, fibre optic connection to all 11 provincial capitals including more than 60 district, satellite
Yes Ongoing activity
MoRENet (est. 2005)
Yes 60 Community Multimedia centres in operation and 40 in the process of being established
In preparation
Namibia WACS, ACE, SEACOM
Nationwide terrestrial fibre backbone infrastructure
Yes (WIXP est. 2014)
Bill under development to support this
XNET (est. 2004) No Multipurpose community centres in existence
Universal Service Fund under consideration
Senegal Atlantis 2, SAT3/WASC/SAFE and Africa Coast
Under construction
Being planned Under development
SnREN (est. 2011)
all public universities are connected by optical fiber with a bandwidth of 2 x 155 MB
Yes via ASREN (AfricaConnect 2)
30 Multimedia Community Centres
Yes
South Africa ACE, EAASy, WACS, SEACOM, SAT-3 / WASC and SAFE
Nationwide terrestrial fibre backbone infrastructure plus Radio links
CINX, NAPA-CT1, NAPA-DB1, GINX, JINX and NAPA-JB1
Yes SANReN (est 2006).
Yes 133 Telecentres
152 Thusong Service Centres (Multi-Purpose Community Centres)
Yes
Swaziland No fibre optic backbone network
Yes (est. 2014) Under preparation
No No No No
Tanzania SEACOM Construction almost finished
Yes (est. 2004) Under development
TERNET (est. 2008)
Yes via TERNET 20 telecentres Yes (UCSAF)
Tunisia SEA-ME-WE4, KELTRA 2, Didon cable
Fibre optic Yes Yes Réseau National Universitaire
Yes via ASREN (AfricaConnect 2)
Tele-centres in most towns and villages
Framework in place
Uganda TEAMS, SEACOM and EASSy
NBI and EGI in place
Yes (UiXP est. 2003)
Yes – ongoing activity
RENU (est. 2006) Yes via RENU 154 in existence Yes (RCDF)
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The next section provides an overview of national research priorities, priority areas identified in the
context of the Horizon 2020 ICT-39 Call and an initial mapping of research expertise to Horizon
2020 Themes.
1.4 National Research Priorities and Initial Mapping to Horizon 2020
In an African context ICT must be seen as a horizontal enabler in all areas of Service delivery -
eHealth, eGovernment, eAgriculture, eEnvironment, eEducation and eInfrastructures. This requires
a multidisciplinary approach including thematic experts, computer scientists and user interface
experts for example. The ability to deliver services via mobile phones is also critical.
Important research areas that are common across most IST-Africa partner countries include
Health including eHealth, Health Informatics, Telemedicine, Improved diagnosis, mathematical
modelling for epidemiology, Medical image processing, Big data analytics for Healthcare, Tools
to support self-management of health, Tools to support primary health care workers, Bio-
Informatics, Research related to Malaria, HIV, Cancer, Diabetes and Tropical diseases
Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture including Agri-food, Sustainable Food production
systems, Water management and sensors, bio-based industries, Information systems to support
sustainable natural resources management, Crop production, Forestry, Medical plants
Environment & Energy including Renewable Energy, Smart Electricity Grids, Low-cost devices
for energy provision, Smart Metering, Smart Cities, Reducing energy consumption and carbon
footprints through smart and sustainable use, Energy efficient design, Solar energy, Energy
harvesting, Green ICT, Wind energy solutions, Climate Change and Advanced Sensor Networks
Technology-enhanced Learning including eSkills, Blended Learning, frameworks to support
development of content objects, personalised learning
CyberSecurity
Cloud Computing
While each country is addressing a number of national research priorities as outlined in Table 2
below, Diagram 1 provides a visual overview of the main priorities currently being addressed.
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Diagram 1: Overview of National Research Priorities
Table 2: National Research Priorities in IST-Africa Partner Countries
IST-Africa Partner Country National Research Priorities include:
Angola eInfrastructures, Technology-enhanced Learning, Solar Energy, Informatics & Electronics, Digital Inclusion
Botswana eInfrastructures, Technology-enhanced Learning, Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security, Entrepreneurship, Cyber Security, Energy and Water Ecosystem, Sustainable Development and Climate Change, eHealth
Burundi eInfrastructures, ICT in Education, eGovernment Services, Agro-Food Technology, Medical Science, Energy, Water, Environment, Biotechnology and Indigenous Knowledge
Cameroon eInfrastructures, Cyber Security, Connected Enterprises, Cloud Computing, Technology-enhanced Learning, Sustainable Agriculture, Energy, Biotechnology, Environment, Culture, eHealth, Forestry, Tourism, Mining
Egypt Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship; Biomedical Informatics Research; Digital Identity; Basic Infrastructure (Broadband, Cloud Computing, Submarine Cables); Cyber Security & eSignature; Information Infrastructure & Digital Content; Electronics Design and Manufacturing
Ethiopia eInfrastructures; eHealth; Natural Language Processing; Big Data; Indigenous Knowledge; eAgriculture
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Kenya Telecommunications, Electronics and Computers (TEC); Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Education; Coordination of Technology, Innovation and Commercialisation; Space Science and Energy
Lesotho eInfrastructures, eGovernment, eHealth, Technology-enhanced Learning, eAgriculture
Malawi eHealth, eAgriculture, eInfrastructure and Entrepreneurship, eGovernment, Technology-enhanced Learning, Digital Libraries & Repositories
Mauritius ICT Energy Efficiency, eWaste Management, eAgriculture, Bio-informatics, Biometric Security, Context Awareness, eHealth, Technology-enhanced Learning, Digital Enterprise
Mozambique eHealth, Food Security and Agriculture, Future Internet, Technology-enhanced Learning, eGovernment, ICT for Rural Development and Entrepreneurship.
Namibia Digital Content, Technology-enhanced Learning, eGovernment, eHealth, eAgriculture & Fisheries including Water; Entrepreneurship, Mining & Geosciences, Biotechnology, Logistics and Space Science.
Senegal eGovernment, eInfrastructures, Entrepreneurship, Digital Divide, eHealth, Technology-enhanced Learning,
South Africa mHealth, eServices, Environment, Food Security and Agriculture, Trust and Security, Space, Future Internet (Internet of Things), Cloud Computing, Advanced Sensor Networks, Technology-enhanced Learning, Energy and Energy Efficience, Robotics and Machine Learning, Data Science, Future Wireless Broadband Technologies and Applications.
Swaziland eHealth, eAgriculture & Food Security, eInfrastructures, Environment, Entrpreneurship
Tanzania eInfrastructures, Cloud Computing/ High Performance Computing, Cyber Security, Mobile Computing, ICT for Creativity and Learning, eHealth, eAgriculture
Tunisia eHealth, eInfrastructures, Cyber Security, Services and Trusted Networks, eServices and Knowledge Economy, Cloud Computing and ICT for Energy Efficiency
Uganda eHealth, Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture, Energy, Envionment, Future Internet, eGovernment, Digital Content, Technology-enhanced Learning, Robotics, Bioinformatics, Climate change and Energy Efficiency
Table 3 below provides an overview of the Thematic areas of highest priority in the context of the
ICT-39 Horizon 2020 Calls. While there are some thematic areas that are common across most of
the IST-Africa partner countries such as eHealth, eAgriculture or Technology-enhanced Learning,
there are also additional thematic areas in some countries based on national research capacity.
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Table 3: Thematic areas of highest priority to ICT-39-2015 and ICT-39-2017
IST-Africa Partner Country Thematic areas of highest priority to ICT-39
Angola eHealth; eAgriculture; Environment
Botswana eHealth, eAgriculture, Technology-enhanced Learning, Energy and Water Ecosystem, Sustainable Development and Climate Change
Burundi eHealth; eAgriculture; Energy; Environment
Cameroon eHealth; eAgriculture; Environment; Technology-enhanced Learning; eGovernment
Egypt eAgriculture; eHealth; eGovernment; Technology-enhanced Learning; Energy;
Ethiopia eAgriculture; eHealth; Natural Language Processing and Information Retrieval;
Kenya eAgriculture; eHealth; eGovernment; Technology-enhanced Learning
Lesotho eAgriculture; eHealth; Technology-enhanced Learning; Environment; eGovernment;
Malawi eHealth; eAgriculture; Technology-enhanced Learning; Environment; eGovernment
Mauritius Energy; Climate action/Environment; Sustainable Agriculture and Maritime Research; Smart, Green & Integrated Transport; eHealth
Mozambique eHealth; eAgriculture; Technology-enhanced Learning; Environment; eGovernment
Namibia eAgriculture; eHealth; Technology-enhanced Learning; eGovernment;
Senegal eHealth; Environment
South Africa eAgriculture; eHealth; Technology-enhanced Learning; Environment; eGovernment; Digital Inclusion, Environment/Climate Change, Internet of Things, Cloud Computing
Swaziland eAgriculture; eHealth; eGovernment; Environment
Tanzania eAgriculture; eHealth; Environment/Climate Change
Tunisia eAgriculture; eHealth; Environment; eGovernment; Technology-enhanced Learning
Uganda eAgriculture; eHealth; Technology-enhanced Learning; Environment
Diagrams 2, 3 and 4 below provide visual representation of priority themes in the context of the ICT-
39 H2020 Calls and an overview of some of the national institutions who have research expertise in
the prioritised themes for ICT-39.
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Diagram 2 Horizon 2020 ICT-39 Priority themes in IST-Africa partner countries
Diagram 3 below provides a mapping of North, Central, East and West African institutions in IST-
Africa partner countries to ICT-39 priority areas.
Diagram 4 below provides a mapping of Southern African instiutions in IST-Africa partner countries
to ICT-30 priority areas.
Tables 4 & 5 below provide an overview of some of the main institutions, research areas of interest
and mapping to Leadership in Enabling and Industrial Technologies (LEIT) & Societal Challenges
under Horizon 2020. This overview is designed to help interested parties to quickly identify potential
partners in specific thematic areas. Please read the individual country chapters for more detailed
information in relation to research capacity.
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Diagram 3: Mapping of North, Central, East and West Africa Institutions to ICT-39 Themes
(IST-Africa Partners Countries)
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Diagram 4: Mapping of Southern African Institutions to ICT-39 Themes (IST-Africa Partners
Countries)
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Table 4: Mapping of Research Expertise in relation to LEIT areas under Horizon 2020 in IST-Africa Partner Countries
Country LEIT Areas of Most Relevance Institutions include Angola Components & Systems,
Advanced Computing, Content Technologies & Information Management
Instituto Superior Politécnico de Benguela (Engineering Department) Universidade Agostinho Neto Universidade Mandume Yandemufayo Universidade Católica de Angola Universidade Metodista de Angola
Botswana Components & Systems, Advanced Computing, Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management
University of Botswana (Department of Computer Science) Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (Faculty of ICT) Botswana International University of Science and Technology (CITE & MEGE Depts.) Botho University (Faculty of Computing) Botswana Accounting College (Dept. of Computer and Information Systems)
Burundi Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management
University of Burundi (ICT Dept, Polytechnics Dept.) Université Lumière de Bujumbura (Faculty of Communications and Information Technology) INITELMATIQUE Université de Ngozi (Faculty of Maths and Informatics)
Cameroon Components & Systems, Advanced Computing, Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management, Robotics
University of Beau University of Douala (Dept of Maths and Informatics) University of Dschang (Dept of Maths and Computer Science) University of Maroua (ISS) University of Ngaoundere (Dept of Maths and Computer Science) University of Yaounde I (ENSP)
Egypt Components & Systems, Advanced Computing, Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management, Robotics, Nano-Electronics
Beni Suef University (Faculty of Computers and Information) Cairo University (Depts of Information Technology, Computer Science, Electrical and Communication, Applied National Institute of Science, Systems and Biomedical) ITIDA - SECC American University in Cairo (AUC) (Depts of Computer Science & Engineering, Electronics Engineering) British University in Egypt (BUE) (Faculty of Informatics and Computers Science) Ain Shams University Helwan University (Faculty of Computers and Information Systems)
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Heliopolis University (Faculty of Engineering Nile University (Schools of Communications and IT, Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nano Electronics Integrated Systems Centre, Wireless Intelligent Networks) Arab Academy for Science, Technology & Maritime Transport (Depts of Electronics and Communications, College of Computing and Information Technology) Azhar University (Dept of Computer Engineering) National Telecommunication Institute (Depts. of Networks, Electronics) Egyptian National Scientific and Technical Information Network (ENSTINET) Zewail City of Science and Technology (Smart Systems)
Ethiopia Components & Systems, Advanced Computing, Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management, Cloud Computing, Wireless Networking
Addis Ababa University (Institute of Technology, IT Doctoral Programme, School of Info Sciences) University of Gondar (Dept of Computer Science, School of Technology) Haramaya University (Depts of Computer Science, Information Systems, Information Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering) Mekelle University (Ethiopian Institute of Technology) Arba Minch University HiLCoE School of Computer Science and Technology College ICT Centre of Excellence Jimma University Bahir Dar University Adama S&T University
Kenya Components & Systems, Advanced Computing, Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management
University of Nairobi (Schools of Computing and Informatics, Engineering, FabLab) KCA University (Faculty of Computing and Information Management) Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology(JKUAT) (Depts of Computing, IT, Telecoms) Strathmore University (Faculty of Information Technology, @iLabAfrica) Moi University (Schools of Engineering, Information Technology) Egerton University (Faculty of Engineering & Technology) Kenyatta University (School of Engineering & Technology) Kenya Education and Research Network (KENET) United States International University
Lesotho Advanced Computing, Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management
National University of Lesotho (Dept of Maths and Computer Science) Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (Dept of Computer Techhnology) Lesotho College of Education
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Malawi Components & Systems, Advanced Computing, Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management
Chancellor College, University of Malawi (Dept of Computer Science, Department of Physics) Polytechnic, University of Malawi (Dept of Computing and Information Technology) National College of Information Technology College of Medicine, University of Malawi Mzuzu University (Dept of Information Sciences and Communication) Kamuzu College of Nursing, University of Malawi (Community and Mental Health Dept)
Mauritius Components & Systems, Advanced Computing, Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management, Robotics
University of Mauritius (Depts of Computer Science and Engineering, Mechanical and Production Engineering) University of Technology Mauritius (Schools of Innovation, Technology & Engineering, Sustainable Development and Tourism) Université des Mascareignes (Faculty of Engineering – ICT) Middlesex University of Mauritius Charles Telfair Institute Open University of Mauritius Mauritius Research Council
Mozambique Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management
Instituto Nacional de Tecnologias de Informacao e Comunicacao (INTIC) Instituto Nacional das Comunicações de Moçambique (INCM) Eduardo Mondlane University (Depts of Engineering and Informatics, CIUEM) Mozambique ICT Institute (MICTI) Catholic University (Dept of Information Technology) National Institute for Education Development (INDE) Pedagogical University
Namibia Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management, Robotics
Namibia University of Science and Technology (School of Information Technology) University of Namibia (Depts of Computer Science, Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering, Multidisciplinary Research Centre)
Senegal Components & Systems, Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management, Robotics
Université Cheikh Anta Diop Université Gaston Berger Ecole Polytechnique de Thiès Université de Bambey Université de Ziguinchor Ecole Superieure Polytechnique de Dakar-UCAD
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South Africa Components & Systems, Advanced Computing, Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management, Robotics
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (Depts of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering; Industrial & Systems Engineering; Information and Communications Technology Academy; Informatics and Design) University of the Witwatersrand (Dept of Electrical and Electronics Engineering Science; Academy of Computer Science and Software Engineering) University of Cape Town (Depts of Electrical Engineering, Computer Science & Information Systems, Centre for Information Technology) University of Western Cape CSIR Meraka Institute University of Zululand (Depts of Computer Science and Information Systems) University of Free State (Dept of Computer Science & Informatics) University of Pretoria (Depts of Computer Science, Informatics and Information Science; Systems Engineering, Electronic and Computer Engineering) University of Johannesburg (Depts of Electrical and Electronics Engineering Science; Academy of Computer Science and Software Engineering) University of KwaZulu Natal (Schools of Maths, Statics & Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering) Rhodes University (Depts of Computer Science; Information Systems; Physics and Electronics) Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (Depts of Electrical Engineering; School of Information and Communication Technology, Computer Science; Institute for ICT Advancement) University of Stellenbosch (Depts of Electrical and Electronics Engineering; Computer Science; Centre for Languages and Speech Technology) Tshwane University of Technology (Depts of Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Networks, System Development, ICT Management) University of Fort Hare (Dept of Computer Science & Information Systems) North West University (Schools of Electrical, Electronic, Information Systems and Computer Science; Information Technology; Mathematics and Physical Science)
Tanzania Components & Systems, Advanced Computing, Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management, Robotics
Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (Centre for ICT Excellence) University of Dar es Salaam (School of Informatics & Communication Technologies; College of Engineering; University of Computing Centre) University of Dodoma (School of Informatics) State University of Zanzibar Institute of Financial Management St Joseph's University Open University of Tanzania
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Nelson Mandela University Arusha (Schools of Computational & Communication Science & Engineering; Applied Maths & Computational Science; Information Technology Development & Management; Communication Science & Engineering) Ardhi University (Centre for ICT) Muslim University of Morogoro Sokoine University of Agriculture University of Bagamoyo
Tunisia Components & Systems, Advanced Computing, Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management, Robotics
University of Tunis El Manar (National School of Engineers of Tunis (ENIT), Faculty of Sciences of Tunis) University of Tunis (Higher School of Sciences and Techniques of Tunis, ENSIT) University of Cathage (Polytechnic School of Tunisia (EPT), Higher School of Communications Technology (SupCom); National Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology (INSAT); Higher School of Technology & Computer Science of Carthage (ENICAR) University of Manouba (National School of Computer Sciences (ENSI) University of Sousse (Higher School of Engineers of Sousse (ENISO) University of Monastir (National School of Engineers of Monastir (ENIM) University of Sfax (National School of Engineers of Sfax (ENIS) University of Gabes (National School of Engineers of Gabes (ENIG) Centre National de L'informatique (CNI) Centre D'etudes et de Recherches de Telecommunications (CERT) Centre de Recherche en Microelectronique et Nanotechnologie (CRMN)
Uganda Computing, Future Internet, Content Technologies & Information Management, Robotics, Smart Embedded Components
Makerere University (Faculty of ICT, Business School, East African School of Library and Information Science) Uganda Christian University Uganda Martyrs University Mbarara University of Science and Technology (Depts. of Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Incubation) Gulu University Uganda Technology Management University
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Table 5: Initial Mapping of Research Expertise in relation to Societal Challenges under Horizon 2020 in IST-Africa Partner Countries
Country Societal Challenges of Most Relevance
Institutions include
Angola Health, Food Security and Agriculure, Climate Action / Environment
Health - Instituto Superior Politécnico de Benguela (Engineering Department); Universidade Agostinho Neto; Instituto Nacional de saúde Pública; CEDUMED; Universidade Lueji A´nkonde (Medicine Faculty) Agriculture - Universidade Agostinho Neto; University Kimpa Via (HIgher Polytechnic School); Universidade Jose Eduardo dos Santos (UJES) Climate Action / Environment - Universidade Agostinho Neto; Universidade Independente de Angola, Universidade Metodista de Angola
Botswana Health; Food Security and Agriculture, Energy, Transport, Secure Societies
Health - University of Botswana (School of Medicine); Botswana International University of Science and Technology (CITE Dept), Botswana Accounting College (Dept of Computing and Information Systems) Agriculture - University of Botswana, Botswana National Veterinary Laboratory, Botswana National Food Research Centre Energy - Botswana International University of Science and Technology (MEGE Dept) Transport - Botswana International University of Science and Technology (MEGE Dept) Secure Societies - Botswana International University of Science and Technology (Applied Sciences); Botho University (Faculty of Computing)
Burundi Health; Food Security and Agriculture, Energy
Health - University of Burundi (Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Science); National Institute of Public Health (INSP); Université de Ngozi (Health Science Institute/Faculty), Université Espoir d’Afrique (Faculty of Medicine) Agriculture - University of Burundi (Faculty of Agronomy and BioEngineering, IRRI); National Center for Food Technology (CNTA); Institute of Agronomic Sciences in Burundi (ISABU); Université de Ngozi (CERADER); AGROBIOTECH Energy – REGIDESO, ONATOUR, University of Burundi
Cameroon Health; Food Security and Agriculture; Energy; Transport; Environment; Innovative Societies; Secure Societies
Health – University of Dschang (Dept Maths & Computer Science); University of Maroua (Computer/Telecom); University of Ngaoundere (Math/CS); University of Doula (Math/CS); University of Yaounde I (Faculty of Biomedical Science), University of Buea (Faculty of Health Science) Food Security & Agriculture - University of Maroua (Computer/Telecom); University of Ngaoundere (Math/CS); University of Dschang (Faculty of Agronomy), Institute for Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD) Yaounde Energy – University of Dschang (Dept Maths & Computer Science); University of Maroua (Computer/Telecom); University of Yaounde I (Faculty of Science)
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Transport - University of Maroua (Computer/Telecom) Climate Change & Environment - University of Ngaoundere (Math/CS), University of Yaounde I (Faculty of Science) Inclusive, Innovative & Reflective Societies - University of Maroua (Computer/Telecom), University of Yaounde I (ENSP) Secure Societies - University of Maroua (Computer/Telecom); University of Ngaoundere (Math/CS), University of Yaounde I (ENSP)
Egypt Health; Food Security and Agriculture; Energy; Transport; Environment; Innovative Societies; Secure Societies
Health - American University of Cairo; Nile University (Center for Informatics Science, Centre for Nanotechnololgy); Cairo University; Ain Shams University ASU Faculty of Medicine; Information Technology Institute; Academy of Scientific Research and Technology ASRT; ITI, Heliopolis University; Beni Suef University (Faculty of Computers and Information), British University in Egypt Food Security & Agriculture – Nile University (Center for Informatics Science); Heliopolis University (Heliopolis Academy Lab for Biodynamic Agriculture and Medicinal Plants); The Agricultural Research Center; National Research Center; National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries; Zagazig University Energy – NIle University (Nano Electronics Integrated Systems Centre, Center for Nanotechnology); American University of Cairo; Heliopolis University; New and Renewable Energy Authority; Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation; Academy of Scientific Research and Technology ASRT; Egypt Japan University for Science and Technology Enviroment – Nile University (Nano Electronics Integrated Systems Centre, Center for Nanotechnology); Cairo University; Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency; Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation, Heliopolis University Transport - Ain Shams University; National Telecommunication Institute Inclusive, Innovation and Reflective Societies – Nile University; Heliopolis University, Bibliotec of Alexandria (CULTNAT) Secure Societies – American University of Cairo, Nile University (Centre for Informatics Science)
Ethiopia Health; Food Security and Agriculture; Energy; Environment; Secure Societies
Health - University of Gondar (Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health; Dept. of Computer Science, School of Technology); Addis Ababa University; Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute, Jimma University Food Security & Agriculture - Mekelle University, University of Gondor, Arba Minch University (Department of Computer Science) Energy – University of Gondar Environment - Geological Survey of Ethiopia; Geosas Consulting Service Plc; Arba Minch University; Addis Ababa University; Mekelle University; University of Gondar; HiLCOE Secure Societies – Haramaya University; HiLCoE
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Country Societal Challenges of Most Relevance
Institutions include
Kenya Health; Food Security and Agriculture; Environment; Energy Efficiency; Transport; Inclusive, Innovative and Reflective Societies
eHealth - University of Nairobi, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Strathmore University (@iLabAfrica), Moi University, United States International University (School of Science and Technology), Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kabarak University Food Security and Agriculture - Moi University, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), University of Nairobi, Strathmore University (@iLabAfrica), United States International University (School of Business), Egerton University, Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KARLO); International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) Efficient Energy - Strathmore University (@iLabAfrica), JKUAT, University of Nairobi, Moi University Transport - Strathmore University (@iLabAfrica), JKUAT, University of Nairobi Digital Inclusion, eGovernment, eLearning - Strathmore University (@iLabAfrica), Moi University
Lesotho Health; Agriculture; Energy Health - National Health Training Centre; National University of Lesotho (Dept of Pharmacy and Nutrition); Limkokwing University of Creative Technology Agriculture – National University of Lesotho (Faculty of Agriculture) Energy – National University of Lesotho (Dept of Mathematics & Computer Science) Innovative Societies - Limkokwing University of Creative Technology Secure Societies - Limkokwing University of Creative Technology
Malawi Health; Food Security and Agriculture; Environment; Secure Societies
Health - College of Medicine; Kamuzu College of Nursing; Mzuzu University; Chancellor College, University of Malawi; Polytechnic, University of Malawi; MUST Agriculture – LUANAR, Mzuzu University; Lilongwe University of Agriculture & Natural Resources, Dept of Agricultural Research Services Environment - LUANAR; Polytechnic, University of Malawi Energy - LUANAR; Malawi University of Science and Technology (Climate and Earth Science Dept); University of Malawi (Chemistry Dept) Secure Societies - Chancellor College, University of Malawi; Polytechnic, University of Malawi
Mauritius Health; Sustainable Agriculture; Environment; Energy; Innovative Societies; Secure Societies
Health - University of Mauritius (Dept of Computer Science and Engineering), University of Technology Mauritius (School of Sustainable Development and Tourism), Mauritius Research Council, Université des Mascareignes, Mauritius Institute of Health Sustainable Agriculture - University of Mauritius (Dept of Chemical & Environmental Engineering), University of Technology Mauritius (School of Sustainable Development and Tourism), Mauritius Research Council, Mauritius Sugarcane Industry Research Institute Environment, Climate Change - University of Mauritius (Dept of Chemical & Environmental Engineering), University of Technology Mauritius, Université des Mascareignes, Mauritius
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Sugarcane Industry Research Institute, Middlesex University Energy, Green ICT, Smart Cities – Charles Telfair Institute, University of Mauritius (Dept of Chemical & Environmental Engineering; Dept of Mechanical and Producation Engineering), Mauritius Research Council, University of Technology Mauritius (School of Sustainable Development and Tourism), Mauritius Sugarcane Industry Research Innovative Societies - University of Technology Mauritius, Mauritius Research Council, University of Mauritius (Virtual Centre for Innovative Learning Technologies), Charles Telfair Institute, OPen University of Mauritius, Université des Mascareignes Secure Societies - Université des Mascareignes, University of Technology Mauritius, Open University of Mauritius
Mozambique Health; Food Security and Agriculture; Environment
Health - Eduardo Mondlane University UEM (Faculty of Medicine), Higher Institute for Health Science, Pedagogical University Agriculture - Agrarian Research Institute of Mozambique (IIAM), CIDE, Pedagogical University Environment - Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia; Eduardo Mondlane University; IIA (Water Research Institute); University of Zambeze
Namibia Health; Food Security and Agriculture; Energy; Environment; Inclusive and Reflective Societies
Namibia University of Science and Technology (School of Health and Applied Sciences, School of Natural Resources and Tourism, School of Engineering, Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Institute) University of Namibia (Faculty of Health Sciences, Faculty of Agriculgture and Natural Resources,
Senegal Health; Environment; Cultural Resources; Secure Societies
Health - Université Gaston Berger; Université Cheikh Anta Diop Environment - Université Cheikh Anta Diop; Ecole Polytechnique de Thiès; Ecole Superieure Polytechnique de Dakar - UCAD Cultural Resources - Ecole Polytechnique de Thiès Secure Societies - Ecole Polytechnique de Thiès
South Africa Health, Energy, Innovative Societies, Secure Societies, Food Security and Agriculture
Health - Walter Sisulu University; University of KwaZulu-Natal; University of Witwatersrand; University of Pretoria (School of Health Systems and Public Health); CSIR Meraka; Medical Research Council; University of Free State; University of Stellenbosch (Faculty of Health and Medicine); Rhodes University (Natural Products and Medicinal Chemistry Research Group); University of Cape Town (Drug Discovery and Development Center), Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University; University of Johannesburg; Tshwane University of Technology Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture - Agricultural Research Council; University of KwaZulu-Natal (Department of Agricultural Engineering); Cape Peninsula University (Functional Foods Research Unit); University of Stellenbosch (Institutes of Plant Biotechnology); Institute of Wine Biotechnology; CSIR Biosciences; University of Johannesburg (Department of Biotechnology); University of Pretoria, University of Zululand
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Energy - University of South Africa (College of Science, Engineering and Technology); Cape Peninsula University of Technology (Centre for Substation Automation and Energy Management Systems); University of Stellenbosch (Dept of Electircal and Electronics); Univerisity of Witwatersrand (Dept of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering); North-West University (Schools of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering), Fort Hare University (Institute of Technology); Rhodes University (Biotechnology Innovation Center); University of Cape Town (Energy Research Center); Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Innovative Societies - Rhodes University; Fort Hare University; University of Stellenbosch; CSIR Meraka; Tshwane University of Technology; Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Secure Societies - CSIR MDS and DPSS; University of KwaZulu-Natal; Tshwane University of Technology; University of Stellenbosch; University of Limpopo
Swaziland Health, Food Security and Agriculture; Environment
University of Swaziland (Department of Health Sciences, Department of Computer Information Systems, Department of Agricultural Research); Swaziland Environmental Authority
Tanzania Health; Food Security and Agriculture; Energy; Transport; Environment; Innovative Societies; Secure Societies
Health - Ifakara Health Institute; Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences; Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences; Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College Agriculture - Sokoine University of Agriculture; Open University Energy - Ardhi University Transport - Ardhi University; National Institute of Transport Environment – Open University Inclusive, Innovative and Reflective Societies – University of Bagamoyo Secure Societies - University of Dodoma; Institute of Financial Management; Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology; University of Bagamoyo
Tunisia Health; Food Security and Agriculture; Energy; Environment; Transport; Innovative Societies; Secure Societies
Health - ENIS; SupCom; ENSIT; Institut Pasteur de Tunis; Institut National de La Sante Publique, Food Security & Agriculture - SupCom; INSAT; ENIT; Institut National des Sciences et Technologies de La Mer; Institution de La Recherche et de L'enseignement Superieur Agricoles; Centre de Biotechnologie Borj Cedria; Institut National Agronomique de Tunisie; Ecole Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire; Energy - ENIS; SupCom; ENSI; ENIG, ENIM, EPT, ENSIT; Alternative Energy Systems SARL; Ecole Nationale d'Ingenieurs de Tunis Environment - ENIT, Centre International des Technologies de L'environnement de Tunis; Ecole Supérieure des Communications de Tunis; Institut National Agronomique de Tunisie; Observatoire du Sahara et du Sahel; Centre de Biotechnologie de Sfax - CBS; Centre de Biotechnologie de Borj Cedria; Centre de Recherches et des Technologies des Eaux; Université de Tunis; Sfax University; Institut des Regions Arides Transport - ENSI; ENIS; ENSIT, ENIT Innovative Societies - ENSI; ENIS; ENSIT, INSAT, EPT, CERT, CNI, CRMN; Université Virtuelle
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de Tunis
Uganda Health; Food Security and Agriculture; Energy; Transport; Environment; eInclusion; Secure Societies
Health - Makerere University; Mbarara University of Science and Technology; Gulu University Agriculture, Energy, Transport, eInclusion, Secure Societies - Makerere University Environment - Geological Survey and Mines; Department of Geothermal Energy, Makerere University
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1.5 National Participation in FP7
There was a considerable increase in participation from African Member States in
funded FP7 projects, which reflected the opening up of International Cooperation
across all instruments and a number of specific thematic calls focused on
research cooperation with Africa (Africa-2010 Call). Research funding of over
€171.5 million went into African research institutions in 45 African Member
States2. Diagram 5 below highlights countries with the highest levels of FP7 research funding.
Diagram 5: Leading African Countries in terms of FP7 research funding
Diagram 6: FP7 Project Participation from IST-Africa Partner Countries
2 FP7 projects included participation from 45 African Member States: Algeria; Angola; Benin; Botswana; Burkina Faso; Burundi; Cameroon; Cape Verde; Central African Rep.; Congo; Congo (DRC); Cote d'Ivoire; Egypt; Ethiopia; Gabon; Gambia; Ghana; Guinea; Guinea-Bissau; Kenya; Lesotho; Libya; Madagascar; Malawi; Mali; Mauritania; Mauritius; Morocco; Mozambique; Namibia; Niger; Nigeria; Rwanda; Senegal; Seychelles; Somalia; South Africa; Sudan; Swaziland; Tanzania; Togo; Tunisia; Uganda; Zambia; Zimbabwe
Source: S Hogan, EU Delegation to AU
FP7 Research funding of €171.5 million to 45 African Member States
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The level of participation under FP7 by organisations from IST-Africa partner countries has grown
significantly over the past seven years as illustrated in Diagram 6 above
This successful participation provides a body of experience and network of collaborators to build
upon when targeting collaborative research and innovation opportunities under Horizon 2020.
A detailed analysis of African participation in FP7 is provided in the IST-Africa study “Guide to
Bilateral & Multilateral Cooperation Agreements Supporting ICT/STI-related Activities in IST-Africa
Partner Countries3", January 2014, ISBN: 978-1-905824-42-7.
1.6 National Participation in Horizon 2020 and Results from ICT-39-2015
IST-Africa is actively encouring the participation of African institutions in both general and specific
Calls under Horizon 2020. As at November 2015 there are 107 participants from 25 African
countries involved in 48 Horizon 2020 projects. Diagram 7 below outlines the initial participation in
Horizon 2020 during its first year by IST-Arica partner country.
Diagram 7: Horizon 2020 participation by IST-Africa partner country (November 2015)
As part of the strategy to increase African participation, IST-Africa provided evidence to the
European Commission to justify and secure €25 million for African-focused research cooperation
under the LEIT Work Programme of Horizon 2020 (ICT-39-2015 Research and Innovation Actions;
ICT-39-2017 Innovation Actions).
IST-Africa actively disseminated the Call for Proposals for ICT-39-2015 to European and African
institutions, organised dissemination and training workshops in Europe and Africa, assisted
interested parties to identiy partners and provided assistance in fine tuning proposals submitted for
consideration for funding. Box 3 belows provides insights in the results of the ICT-39-2015 Call.
3 http://www.ist-africa.org/home/files/IST-Africa_BilateralCooperation_310114.pdf
Horizon 2020 projects by IST-Africa partner country
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
Botswana
Burund
i
Camer
oon
Egypt
Ethiopia
Ghana
Kenya
Malawi
Moza
mbiq
ue
Namibi
a
Senega
l
South
Africa
Tanz
ania
Tunis
ia
Uganda
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Table 6 below provides an overview of the project types, Horizon 2020 themes and partners from
IST-Africa partner countries in Horizon 2020 projects funded during the first year of this programme.
Box 2: Horizon 2020 ICT-39-2015 Results
ICT-39-2015 ICT Call of Horizon 2020 was focused on focused on initiating collaborativeresearch and innovation projects addressing the end-user communities in Africa in relevantthematic areas addressed by Horizon 2020 including Content Technologies and SocietalChallenges.
IST-Africa actively promoted ICT-39-2015 in Africa and Europe, provided a mapping ofresearch priorities and research capacity in IST-Africa partner countries and organisedtargeted Horizon 2020 Training Workshops in IST-Africa partner countries. Helpdesk supportwas provided to organisations preparing proposals, fine tuning ideas and looking for relevantpartners to cooperate with.
The ICT-39-2015 Call was very successful with 45 proposals submitted including 194participations from Africa out of 439 participations. The proposals submitted were consideredto be of high quality and relevant to the focus of the call with 23 proposals over threshold.
Thematic areas included eHealth, eAgriculture, Internet of Things, Wireless communications,cloud computing, big data, eLearning, language technologies, green transport, clean energy,network technologies, smart cities and eInclusion.
African countries with highest number of participants in proposals included South Africa (36),Kenya (22), Tanzania (18), Uganda (15), Ghana (13), Senegal (13), Ethiopia (9), Cameroon(6), Mozambique (6), Nigeria (6), Namibia (5), Angola (4), Cape Verde (4), Morocco (4),Burkina Faso (3), Gambia (3), Guinea (3), Malawi (3), Mali (3), Niger (3); eight more Africancountries had one or two participations.
Four projects were selected for funding with 11 African countries represented of which 6 IST-Africa partner countries are participating in all four projects - Ethiopia (3), Kenya (2), Cameroon(1), Malawi (1), South Africa (1) and Senegal (1).
DMC-MALVEC – Development of integrated and automated multiplex vector-diagnosticplatform for malaria, Led by IMBB-Forth (Greece) with African partners from Cameroon,Ethiopia, Zambia and other European partners from Germany, Luxembourg, Italy,Switzerland and UK
mHealth4Afrika - Community-based ICT for Maternal Healthcare in Africa, Led by IIMC(Ireland) with African partners from Ethiopia (University of Gondor), Kenya (StrathmoreUniversity), Malawi (Chancellor College, Baobab Health Trust), South Africa (NMMU) andother European partners from Norway and UK.
its4land – Geospatial technology for land tenure security in East Africa, Led by TwenteUniversity (The Netherlands), with African partners from Ethiopia (Bahir Dar University),Kenya (The Technical University of Kenya) & Rwanda (Institut d'Enseignement Superieurde Ruhengeri and Esri Rwanda Ltd) and other European partners from Germany andBelgium
WAZIUP - IoT and Big Data, Led by CREATE-Net (Italy) with African partners fromSenegal (Uni of Gaston Bergeg de Saint Louis, CODER4Africa, CTIC Dakar), BurkinaFaso (Polytechnic of Bobo-Dioulasso), Ghana (iSpace, Farmerline), Togo (L’AfricaineD’Architecture) and other European partners from Germany, France and Portugal.
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Table 6: Horizon 2020 particpiation by IST-Africa partner country (November 2015)
IST-Africa Partner Country
Project Acronym / Project Type Theme / Call / Partner
Botswana PROIntensAfrica (CSA - Coordination & support action) FOOD, H2020-SFS-2014-1 (Centre for Coordination of Agricultural Research and Development for Southern Africa)
Burundi RINEA (CSA - Coordination & support action) SOCIETY, H2020-INT-INCO-2014 (Ministere De L'Enseignement Superiet de la Recherche Scientifique)
Cameroon DMC-MALVEC (RIA - Research and Innovation Action) LEIT - ICT-39-2015
Egypt BEYOND (CSA - Coordination & support action) LEIT-SPACE, H2020-Galileo-2014-1 (Arab Institute of Navigation) MERID (CSA - Coordination & support action) SOCIETY, H2020-INT-INCO-2014 (Ministry of Higher Education and
Scientific Research) Net4Mobility (CSA - Coordination & support action) MSCA-SUPPORT, H2020-MSCA-NCP-2014 (Academy of Scientific
Research and Technology ASRT) SiS.net2 (CSA - Coordination & support action) Science with and for Society, H2020-GARRI-NCP-2014-1 (Academy of
Scientific Research and Technology ASRT) VI-SEEM (RIA - Research and Innovation action) INFRA, H2020-EINFRA-2015-1 (Bibliotheca Alexandrina Library of
Alexandria Bibalex)
Ethiopia RINEA (CSA - Coordination & support action) SOCIETY, H2020-INT-INCO-2014 (African Union)
mHealth4Afrika (RIA - Research and Innovation Action) LEIT - ICT-39-2015 (University of Gondar)
DMC-MALVEC (RIA - Research and Innovation Action) LEIT - ICT-39-2015
its4land (RIA - Research and Innovation Action) LEIT - ICT-39-2015 (Bahir Dar University)
Ghana MAGIC (CSA - Coordination & support action) INFRA, H2020-INFRASUPP-2014-2 (West and Central African Research and Education Network)
PROIntensAfrica (CSA - Coordination & support action) FOOD, H2020-SFS-2014-1 (Council for Scientific and Industrial Research) Sci-GaIA (CSA - Coordination & support action) INFRA, H2020-INFRASUPP-2014-2 (West and Central African Research
and Education Network) TANDEM (CSA - Coordination & support action) INFRA, H2020-INFRASUPP-2014-2 (West and Central African Research
and Education Network) WAZIUP (RIA - Research and Innovation action) LEIT - ICT-39-2015 (iSpace, Farmerline)
Kenya AfricanBioServices (RIA - Research and Innovation action) ENV, H2020-SC5-2014-two-stage (International Livestock Research Institute & Kenya Wildlife Service)
B3Africa (CSA - Coordination & support action) INFRA, H2020-INFRASUPP-2014-2 (International Livestock Research Institute)
COMRADES (RIA - Research and Innovation action) LEIT-ICT, H2020-ICT-2015 (I-Hub Limited)
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ECOPOTENTIAL (RIA - Research and Innovation action) ENV, H2020-SC5-2014-two-stage (United Nations Environment Programme)
EMPOWER (RIA - Research and Innovation action) TRANSPORT, H2020-MG-2014_TwoStages (United Nations Human Settlements Programme)
EWIT (CSA - Coordination & support action) ENV, H2020-WASTE-2014-one-stage (International Centre for Research In Sustainable Development Ent(ICRSD), Kisii County, Kisii University & Sellgelle International Consultancy Company Limited)
REFRESH (RIA - Research and Innovation action) ENV, H2020-WASTE-2014-two-stage (United Nations Environment Programme)
TRUST (CSA - Coordination & support action) Science with and for Society, H2020-GARRI-2014-1 (Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA)
mHealth4Afrika (RIA - Research and Innovation Action) LEIT - ICT-39-2015 (Strathmore University) its4land (RIA - Research and Innovation Action) LEIT - ICT-39-2015 (The Technical University of Kenya)
Malawi MAGIC (CSA - Coordination & support action) INFRA, H2020-INFRASUPP-2014-2 (UbuntuNet Alliance) Sci-GaIA (CSA - Coordination & support action) INFRA, H2020-INFRASUPP-2014-2 (UbuntuNet Alliance) TANDEM (CSA - Coordination & support action) INFRA, H2020-INFRASUPP-2014-2 (UbuntuNet Alliance) mHealth4Afrika (RIA - Research and Innovation Action) LEIT - ICT-39-2015 (Chancellor College, University of Malawi; Baobab
Health Trust)
Mozambique EMI-TB (RIA - Research and Innovation action) HEALTH, H2020-PHC-2014-single-stage (Instituto Nacional de Saúde)
Namibia RINEA (CSA - Coordination & support action) SOCIETY, H2020-INT-INCO-2014 (Ministry of Education)
Senegal MAGNIFIC (IA - Innovation action) LEIT-SPACE, H2020-Galileo-2014-1 (Agence pour la Securite de la Navigation Aerienne en Afrique et a Madagascar)
PROIntensAfrica (CSA - Coordination & support action) FOOD, H2020-SFS-2014-1 (Conf. Respons. Recher. Agronom.Afriq. de L'Ouest & du Centre)
REACTION (RIA - Research and Innovation action) HEALTH, H2020-Adhoc-2014-20 (Universite Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar) WAZIUP (RIA - Research and Innovation action) LEIT - ICT-39-2015 (Uni of Gaston Bergeg de Saint Louis, CODER4Africa,
CTIC Dakar)
South Africa AEROGUST (RIA - Research and Innovation action) TRANSPORT, H2020-MG-2014_TwoStages (University of Cape Town) B3Africa (CSA - Coordination & support action) INFRA, H2020-INFRASUPP-2014-2 (Stellenbosch University &University
of The Western Cape) BioMOre (RIA - Research and Innovation action) ENV, H2020-SC5-2014-one-stage (MINTEK) ECOPOTENTIAL (RIA - Research and Innovation action) ENV, H2020-SC5-2014-two-stage (Council for Scientific and Industrial
Research) EUSPACE-AWE (CSA - Coordination & support action) LEIT-SPACE, H2020-COMPET-2014 (National Research Foundation) EVAg (RIA - Research and Innovation action) INFRA, H2020-INFRAIA-2014-2015 (Agricultural Research Council (ARC)
& National Health Laboratory Services) EWIT (CSA - Coordination & support action) ENV, H2020-WASTE-2014-one-stage (Council for Scientific and Industrial
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Research, E-Waste Association of South Africa, Mintek & Pikitup Johannesburg (Proprietary) Limited)
green.eu (CSA - Coordination & support action) ENV, H2020-SC5-2014-one-stage (Stellenbosch University) GREEN-WIN (RIA - Research and Innovation action) ENV, H2020-SC5-2014-two-stage (University of Cape Town) INTRAW (CSA - Coordination & support action) ENV, H2020-SC5-2014-one-stage (Council for Scientific and Industrial
Research) MAGIC (CSA - Coordination & support action) INFRA, H2020-INFRASUPP-2014-2 (Council for Scientific and Industrial
Research) nEUROSTRESSPEP (RIA - Research and Innovation action) FOOD, H2020-SFS-2014-2 (University of Cape Town) NUCLEUS (CSA - Coordination & support action) Science with and for Society, H2020-ISSI-2014-1 (National Research
Foundation) PROIntensAfrica (CSA - Coordination & support action) FOOD, H2020-SFS-2014-1 (Agricultural Research Council (ARC)) RINEA (CSA - Coordination & support action) SOCIETY, H2020-INT-INCO-2014 (Department of Science and
Technology) Sci-GaIA (CSA - Coordination & support action) INFRA, H2020-INFRASUPP-2014-2 (Council for Scientific and Industrial
Research) SEREN 3 (CSA - Coordination & support action) SECURITY, H2020-DRS-2014 (Council for Scientific and Industrial
Research) TBVAC2020 (RIA - Research and Innovation action) HEALTH, H2020-PHC-2014-single-stage (Kwazulu Natal Research
Institute for TB-HIV (K-RITH) NPC, Stellenbosch University & University of Cape Town)
TRUST (CSA - Coordination & support action) Science with and for Society, H2020-GARRI-2014-1 (The South African San Institute Trust, University of Cape Town & University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg)
VIROGENESIS (RIA - Research and Innovation action) HEALTH, H2020-PHC-2014-two-stage (University of Kwazulu-Natal) WaterWorks2014 (ERA-NET-Cofund - ERA-NET Cofund) ENV, H2020-WATER-2014-one-stage (Water Research Commission) AtlantOS (RIA - Research and Innovation action) FOOD, H2020-BG-2014-2 (Council for Scientific and Industrial Research) SMART2D (RIA - Research and Innovation action) HEALTH, H2020-HCO-2014 (University of The Western Cape) mHealth4Afrika (RIA - Research and Innovation Action) LEIT - ICT-39-2015 (Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University)
Tanzania AfricanBioServices (RIA - Research and Innovation action) ENV, H2020-SC5-2014-two-stage (Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute & University of Dar Es Salaam)
Sci-GaIA (CSA - Coordination & support action) INFRA, H2020-INFRASUPP-2014-2 (Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology)
Tunisia ARISE2 (RIA - Research and Innovation action) INFRA, H2020-INFRADEV-1-2014-1 (Centre National de la Cartographieet de la Teledetection)
Uganda B3Africa (CSA - Coordination & support action) INFRA, H2020-INFRASUPP-2014-2 (Makerere University) FRESH AIR (RIA - Research and Innovation action) HEALTH, H2020-HCO-2015 (Makerere University)
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PROIntensAfrica (CSA - Coordination & support action) FOOD, H2020-SFS-2014-1 (African forum for Agricultural Advisory Services & The Registered Trustees of the Association for Strengthening Agricultural Research in Eastern and Central Africa)
PROTEIN2FOOD (RIA - Research and Innovation action) FOOD, H2020-SFS-2014-2 (Makerere University) SMART2D (RIA - Research and Innovation action) HEALTH, H2020-HCO-2014 (Makerere University)
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1.7 Conclusion & Recommendations
In an African context ICT must be seen as a horizontal enabler in all areas of Service delivery
including eHealth, eGovernment, eAgriculture, eEnvironment, eEducation and eInfrastructures. This
requires adoopting a multidisciplinary approach that requires input from a range of stakeholders
including thematic content experts, computer scientists and user interface experts. The ability to
deliver services (and in particular public services) via mobile phones is also critical. Common
research areas across most IST-Africa partners include Health, Cloud Computing, Food Security
and Sustainable Agriculture, Enviroment and Energy and Technology-enhanced Learning. There is
often a greater premium placed on adapting technology to address local needs.
This reports documents the current state of ICT and Innovation related policy making, infrastructure,
initiatives, national ICT research priorities, research and Innovation focus within Higher Education
Institutions, priority areas in the context of the Horizon 2020 ICT-39 Call, as well as an initial
mapping of research and innovation capacity to Horizon 2020 Leadership in Enabling and Industrial
Technologies (LEIT) and Societal Challenges priorities as well as FP7 national participation across
the 18 IST-Africa partner countries in North Africa (Egypt, Tunisia), West Africa (Senegal), East
Africa (Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda), Central Africa (Cameroon) and Southern
Africa (Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa,
Swaziland).
There are a good range of current national ICT Initiatives related to eInfrastructures, Innovation and
Entrepreneurship, eGovernment, eHealth, Cyber Security and ICT Skills Development. There has
been a significant investment in eInfrastructure over the past decade in many IST-Africa partner
countries including the development of a national ICT backbone, Internet Exchange points and
access to submarine cables. A National Research and Educational Network (NREN) has been
establised in a significant number of IST-Africa partner countries to support networking and access
to Digital Repositories across Higher Education Institutes.
To assist parties interesting in preparing research and innovation proposals, IST-Africa undertook a
mapping of priority areas in the context of the ICT-39 Horizon 2020 Calls as well as providing a
mapping of some of the national institutions who have research expertise in the prioritised themes
for ICT-39 (Table 3, Diagrams 2, 3 and 4).
A mapping of research areas relevant to Horizon 2020 has been undertaken to raise awareness of
specific African institutions with the capacity to participate in proposals submitted in cooperation
with their European peers. Horizon 2020 is completely open to International Cooperation. Existing
partnerships should take the opportunity to look carefully at upcoming calls under Horizon 2020
including the ICT-39-2017 Call as a mechanism to continue their successful collaboration,
knowledge transfer and capacity building. Tables 4 & 5 provide an overview of the main institutions,
research areas of interest and mapping to Leadership in Enabling and Industrial Technologies
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(LEIT) & Societal Challenges under Horizon 2020. This overview is designed to help interested
parties to quickly identify potential partners in specific thematic areas. Please read the individual
country chapters for more detailed information in relation to research capacity.
In summary there are a number of points that should be considered in future planning:
1. Improving eInfastructure and Good Legal Framework
While many of the targeted countries are at different levels of socio-economic, research and
innovation development, improving eInfrastructures and having a good legal framework to support
ICT activities are seen as being priorities moving towards becoming Information Societies. It is clear
that ICT Policies need to be reviewed on a semi-regular basis to take cognisance of the changing
environment and new innovations. As outlined in this report a number of IST-Africa partner
countries have undertaken reviews in the past five years.
As outlined in Table 1 a significant number of IST-Africa partner countries now have functional
National Education and Research Networks (NRENs) in place. These NRENs are members of
UbuntuNet Alliance, WACREN or ASREN, which now provides access to the benefits from Africa
Connect and Africa Connect 2 eInfrastructure projects focused on supporting a pan-African high-
capacity internet networks connected to the European GÉANT network. This will ultimately facilitate
students, researchers and academics within Africa and between Africa and Europe to interconnect
and share research resources and virtual tools.
Internet Exchange points have also been set up in a significant number of countries as a national
activity as well as through support from the AXIS project managed by African Union Commission
with funding from Luxembourg.
Recommendation: It is recommended that the role of NRENs are clearly articulated and prioritised
at national policy level. Furthermore, this be immediately operationalised by making the necessary
level of Government support (including financial resources) available to ensure that each African
country can fully benefit from the 80% co-funding available under AfricaConnect. AfricaConnect
provides an important opportunity to enhance the research and innovation environment across the
African continent by fostering both national and international research and innovation by providing a
framework to conduct credible national and international collaboration.
2. Growing awareness of the role of multidisciplinary Research
While there is a growing interest in undertaking research and innovation, supporting by an
expanding number of Masters and PhD programmes across IST-Africa partner countries, there are
still a number of practical resourcing challenges that need to be addressed such as access to
specialist skills, funding and gaining access to practical research and innovation experience.
Recommendations: It is recommended that each African country regularly updates its research
and innovation agenda to provide an easily operationalisable road map for research and innovation
activities that are well aligned with current and aspirational national policy priorities.
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It is recommended that the focus of Masters and PhD Programmes are clearly aligned not only with
the existing research and innovation capacity in the country as well as current and aspirational
national needs. To achieve sustainable socio-econonic input, they must also address national policy
priorities. As a result of improving eInfrastructure it is now more possible to engage with institutions
from outside the country to invite them as guest lecturers and visiting research fellows. They can
also provide specific expertise as required via video conferencing lectures and vitual tools.
It is recommended that researchers actively leverage the opportunity to engage with their peers in
other thematic areas to undertake multidisciplinary research. As ICT is being leveraged more and
more as a horizontal enabler for public and private service provision, it is important for informatics
researchers to actively engage with sectoral and usability experts to ensure that research and
innovation outputs can have a sustainable socio-economic benefit by addressing end-users needs.
It is recommended that all research and innovation activities whether at Masters or PhD level should
include a process of engagement with other innovation ecosystem stakeholders and to be involved
in addressing local research and innovation to ensure end user engagement and wider impact.
It is recommended that African Governments work with the international community to prioritise the
establishment of National Research Funds that encourage research to be undertaken by teams
ideally from a number of institutions across the country. This will both built up a track record of
team-based research as well as assist in setting up Centres of Excellence in the future.
It is recomended that there is a clear mechanism at national level to publish research outputs on an
Open Access basis to ensure that the research undertaken is visable to the wider research
community.
3. Growing participation in EU funded research programmes
There was a significant increase in participation from African research institutions during FP7
(Diagrams 5 and 6), which provided the necessary track record undertaking collaborative research
at international level as well as experience working with cross border research teams.
During the first year of Horizon 2020, there were 107 participations from 25 African Member States
involved in 48 projects with research and innovation funding of c €17 million (10% of FP7 total
funding).
Within the LEIT Work Programmes of Horizon 2020, two dedicated Calls focused on addressing the
needs of end-user communities in Africa were included with total funding of €25 million (ICT-39-
2015 Research and Innovation Actions; ICT-39-2017 Innovation Actions). There was a very strong
response to the ICT-39-2015 Call with four cross border projects funded focused on Health, land
tenure security and Internet of Things. The ICT-39-2017 call is focused on Innovation Actions and
closes in April 2017. There are also some African focused calls under the Societal Challenges Work
Programmes.
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However, it is important to remember that Horizon 2020 is completely open to International
Cooperation.
Recommendations: African and European research institutions should actively look for
opportunities to cooperate on relevant projects across all Work Programmes, irrespective of whether
Africa or international cooperation in general is mentioned in the call.
It is recommended that African researchers actively engage with peers in Europe to identify
opportunities for cooperation under Horizon 2020. A lot of relationships already exists from studies
abroad, PhD supervisors and participation at scientific conferences that could be more actively
leveraged.
It is recommended that European researchers actively look for opportunities to collaborate with
African institutions on relevant thematic areas across Horizon 2020 Work Programmes.
It is recommended that African and European researchers interested in cooperating under ICT-39-
2017 commence the planning process as soon as possible to allow sufficient time for co-design. As
an Innovation Action, it is necessary to have European partners from three EU Member States as
well as relevant African Member States.
It is recommended that the European Commission continues to include dedicated calls focused on
addressing African priorities in future Horizon 2020 Work Programmes in relevant thematic areas.
This includes regular and scaled funding for both Research and Innovation actions, Innovation
actions and Coordination and Support Actions to support this community and engagement with this
community. There is a need for dedicated funding for each of these instruments, to ensure that all
appropriate opportunities to accelerate the development of African research and innovation capacity
and further strengthen institutional linkages between European and African researchers.
To support greater awareness of opportunities under Horizon 2020, it is recommended that African
Governments appoint a National Contact Point (NCP) for ICT and other relevant thematic areas for
Horizon 2020 and provide them with the necessary assistance to be trained for this activity.
Futhermore it is recommended that the role of the National Contact Point is institutionalised in the
formal job description of NCPs working for Ministries and public Universities. The objective is to
ensure that they have dedicted time to engage with and support the research and education
community on a sustained and ongoing basis. It also makes them accountable for their work, which
will further enhance the level of professionalism and commitment already demonstrated by African
NCPs.
This report is complemented by two other IST-Africa studies entitled "Report on Innovation Spaces
and Living Labs in IST-Africa Partner Countries4", January 2016, ISBN: 978-1-905824-49-6 and
“Report on ICT and Innovation-related Bilateral and Multilateral Cooperation Initiatives in IST-Africa
4 http://www.ist-africa.org/home/files/IST-Africa_BilateralCooperation_v2_310116.pdf
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Partner Countries5”, January 2016, ISBN: 978-1-905824-48-9. IST-Africa has also published an
Introduction to Horizon 2020 6to assist newcomers in better understanding the structure, timing of
Calls and funding instruments.
5 http://www.ist-africa.org/home/files/IST-Africa_InnovationSpaces_LL_v2_310116.pdf 6 http://www.ist-africa.org/home/files/IST-Africa_D3.3_Horizon2020Guide_310116.pdf
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2. ANGOLA
2.1. Introduction
The Republic of Angola is a country in Southern Africa,
bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Namibia,
Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It has a
surface area of 1,246,700 sq km, divided into 18 provinces
and 163 municipalities. The population is estimated at 24.34
million (INE: Census 2014), with a literacy rate of 71.1%.
54.08% of the total population is between 15 – 64 years of
age. Angola's capital, Luanda, lies on the Atlantic coast in
the northwest of the country and has a population of 6.54
million (INE Census 2014). Angola is urbanising at
approximately 4.97% annualy. The official language is
Portugese.
Oil production and supporting activities contribute c.50% of GDP, over 70% of government revenue,
and account for more than 90% of Angolan exports, with diamonds contributing a further 5%.
Annual growth averaged over 17% from 2004 – 2008 based in considerabe oart on strong oil prices
and international demand and high growth in construction and agriculture as a result of the postwar
reconstruction boom and population resettlement. Despite widepread reliance on subsistence
agriculture, half of all foodstuff is still imported (2015, CIA World Factbook). Reacting to lower
growth prospects and tigher public sector income due to the dramatic fall in international oil prices,
in 2015 Angola reduced government subsidies and proposed import quotas and a more restrictive
licensing regime for extractive industries.
Since the 2002 Peace Accord, Angola has grown socially and economically. In addition to its
mineral wealth the country is making strides in ICT and is looking to leverage off technology to
boost commerce and trade. The formulation of a national STI policy is a principal mandate for the
Ministry of Science and Technology (MINCT7) since its creation in 1997. The National Centre of
Information Technologies (CNTI8), established in 2000 under the Ministry of Telecommunications
and Information Technologies (MTTI9), is a cross-sector coordinating body set up to drive national
efforts to build an Angolan “information society”.
In relation to Communications, according to International Telecommunications Union (ITU)
published statistics10, there was 281 327 fixed lines and 14 052 558 mobile phone subscribers,
7 www.minct.gov.ao 8 www.cnti.gov.ao 9 www.mtti.gov.ao 10 www.itu.int/en/ITU-D/Statistics/Pages/stat/default.aspx
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giving a teledensity penetration of 64.75 % in 2014. During the same year, there was 91 379 fixed
(wired)-broadband subscriptions and estimated 21.26 % individuals using the internet.
There are 24 Public Universities, 40 private Higher Education Institutions, 24 Research Center
integrated in Public and Private Institutions of Higher Education and three research institutions not
integrated.
2.2 ICT Background
The national Policy Framework in Angola includes the White Paper on ICT (2006) which traces
policy measures and actions required for ICT development, National Policy on Science, Technology
and Innovation (2011) and the National Strategy on STI (2011), which establishes a number of key
programs and projects that leverage ICT. The National Plan for Infomraiton Society (PNSI) and the
Strategic Plan for Electronic Government (2013 – 2017) are currently being implemented. According
to the World Bank11, Angola does not have a dedicated policy to leverage ICT in education.
The National Plan for the Information Society (NPIS) 2013-2017 builds on the foundation provided
by the Action Plan for the Information Society developed in 2005 by the Government of Angola.
NPIS is aligned with the country's planning documents and sector (National Development Plan
2013-2017, National Plan for Executive Training and White Paper on Information Technologies) and
other key legislation.
The legal framework12 to support ICT includes
ICTs white paper;
Electronic Communications and Information Society Services Framework Law;
Data Protection Law;
Electronic Communication General Regulation;
Technologies and Information Society Services Regulation; and
ICTs Cybercrime Law (draft)
While much progress has been made, there are still critical deficits in terms of infrastructure,
availability of skilled human resources and timely access to relevant content and services.
According to MTTI13, NPIS 2013 - 2017 aims to fill these current gaps.
NPIS 2013-2017 is structured in 2 Crosscutting Pillars (basis for the development of Information
Society and will support the development of Sectorial Pillars) and 4 Sectorial Pillars (Key Areas with
impact on the development of Information Society in Angola and Angolans.)
11 http://datatopics.worldbank.org/hnp/files/edstats/AGOpro07.pdf 12 http://unctad.org/meetings/en/presentation/cstd_2013_ministerial_wsis_angola.pdf 13 www.mtti.gov.ao/VerPublicacao.aspx?id=1193
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Pillar 3: Agriculture, Fisheries,
Environment and Rural
Development
Pillar 4: Health
Pillar 5: Education
Pillar 6: Industry,
Commerce and Services
Pillar 2: Electronic Governance
Pillar 1: Access and Connectivity
Source: Youth and ICT, the Key for Angola's future, Prof. Pedro Teta, Secretary of State for ICT (2013)
The Electronic Governance Strategic Plan (EGSP) outlines the strategy for the Electronic
Government for 2013-2017. EGSP intends to improve and strengthen Government services
provision to citizens and is divided in 4 main Action Lines:
A Focusing Government Services in Citizens Needs
B Improving Public Sector Efficiency and Effectiveness
C Training and Qualifying Public Employees and Institutions
D Guaranteeing Modern and Secure Technological Infrastructure
CNTI is implementing a national ICT strategy and action plan focused on strengthening ICT related
infrastructure, promoting wider adoption of ICT in both the public and private sector as well as an
environment for technology transfer, integrating use of ICT in research and innovation activities,
conduting eGovernment projects and establishing tele-centres around the country. The CNTI also
created a center of excellence, CENAPATI, to implement the projects included in the plan.
According to UNCTAD14 in the STIP Review of Angola (2008), the Ministry of Post Office and
Telecommunications was established in 1997. In 1999, the Government liberalized the sector which
ended the monopoly of state-owned Angola Telecom and established the Angolan National Institute
of Communications (INACOM) as a regulatory body for the sector.
According to INACOM, there are currently five fixed-line operators in Angola—the state-owned
Angola Telecom, Mercury Telecommunications Services (now MS Telecom and affiliated with
Sonangol -state-owned petroleum company), Nexus (now part of MS Telecom), Mundo Startel (part-
owned by Telecom Namibia), and Wezacom (now effectively defunct) — while Angola Telecom’s
Multitel and a number of smaller private ISPs provide internet services.
2.2.1 ICT Infrastructure
Angola’s domestic backbone is currently comprised of microwave, VSAT, and fiber-optic cables,
while the Government’s Master Plan for ICT development envisions connecting the country’s 18
provinces through a national fiber optic-backbone. Nation-wide fiber optic rollout is in progress. Until
2012, all International internet traffic went through the South Atlantic 3 (SAT-3) cable, which the
state-owned Angola Telecom controls. However, now traffic also uses the 17,000km long Africa
14 http://unctad.org/en/docs/sdtestict20081_en.pdf
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Coast to Europe (ACE) cable and the almost 15,000 km West Africa Cable System (WACS15).
Angola Cables16 established a 6,500 km submarine cable between Northeastern Brazil and Luanda
by 2015 (South Atlantic Cable System) to reduce current international bandwidth costs routed
through Europe. AngoSat17, Angola's first communication satellite, built by Rosoboronexport, is
scheduled to launch in 2017.
Source: AICD Interactive Infrastructure Atlas for Angola
In 2006, the Angola Internet Exchange Point Luanda-Angola was created (Angola-IXP18), to keep
local traffic within national borders by interconnecting the networks of Internet service providers.
According to the Executive Director of Infrasat19, the Angolan enterprise of satellite communications
in 2012, they aimed to re-establish rural telephone service by re-activating 600 dishes/antennas or
tele-centres.
15 http://wacscable.com 16 www.angolacables.co.ao 17 http://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/angosat-1.htm 18 http://www.angola-ixp.ao/
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2.3. Current ICT Initiatives and projects
National ICT Initiatives in Angola are primarily focused on addressing
eGovernment (Electronic Government Network, Government Portal, Capacity Building, State
Financial Administration System, State Property Administration Service, National System of
Civil Registration, Biometric ID Card, Criminal Registration System)
Digital Divide (Provincial Digital Resource Centers, Multimedia Community Centres
Programme)
eEducation (Media library and mobile media libraries; education and training on ICT; pilot
project on database for basic level education)
eBanking
Building a resiliant National Datacenter infrastructure
Acquisition of a Communication Satellite ANGOSAT 1 by 2017
2.3.1 eGovernment Initiatives
The Angolan government is implementing 12 main initiatives to increase the competitiveness and
development of the ICT industry in the future: Public Internet Access Points; Local Media Libraries;
N'Gola Digital Telecentres; ICT in Community Centres; PC and Smartphone financing programs;
ICT promotion program; ICT professional training courses; ICT courses for entrepreneurs; ICT
Internships; Youth Portal; Single Registration; Monitoring and Reporting system. The Ministry of
Telecomunications and Information Technologies is responsible for many of these initiatives.
eGovernment projects include putting relevant systems and software in place including: Citizens
portal; Employment portal; Citizen one-stop-shop; One-stop-shop for Business; Tax Management
System; Finance, Taxation and Assets Management System; Integrated Customes System and
Registry, Notary and Identity Card System. Two Government Datacenters were established in 2012,
with a third to follow to assure redundancy and fault tolerance.
The main objective of the Government Portal Project20 is to bring all public information and services
under the same platform to faciliate citizen access via the Internet. Angolans can make
appointments with government officials; and download useful documents and forms such as
passport applications. They can also find information on government programmes and send their
views and comments to the government. The system currently has 157 services, information on 31
government programmes, and 28 official government forms. In the United Nations eGovernment
Survey 2014 21, Angola was placed into Middle E-Government Development Index (EGDI) group
(between 0.25 and 0.50).
19 www.arctel-cplp.org/noticias/detalhe/214/en 20 http://www.governo.gov.ao/ 21 https://publicadministration.un.org/egovkb/Portals/egovkb/Documents/un/2014-Survey/Chapter1.pdf
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To support the National Policy for Science, Technology and Innovation and National Development
Plan, in October 2015, the African Development Bank (AfDB) granted Angola a $90 million loan22 to
finance a science and technology park in Madubas, Bengo province which will support Angolan
businesses and entrepreneurs through training, and research and incubation facilities. This loan will
also fund 155 scholarships, 55% for young female students, finance 40 new projects and develop a
IPR protection system for the country.
2.3.2 Digital Divide / Education Initiatives
Angola’s Ministry of Education is focused on improving the management of the higher education
sector, creating six academic regions and addressing challenges identified in area including
management, financing, teaching and learning bodies, curricula and programmes.
In June 2012, Unitel, one of the country’s private mobile operators, launched “E-Net”23, a joint
project with the Ministry of Education and Huawei to provide free Internet access for secondary
school students in public and private schools across Angola’s 18 provinces.
In September 2014, the Angolan Ministry of Education announced an investment of €16 million in
the computerization of over 300 classrooms across the country. The project also includes training
teachers at a national level, “as a way to introduce and use new information technologies in primary
schools, thus reflecting an improvement in the quality of teaching.24”
In 2014 Samsung Electronics launched the first Solar Powered Internet School in Angola in
partnership with the Ministry of Science and Technology through its Centre of Technology. This is
part of a regional project which also includes Botswana, Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa. This
project supports training for young people on programming for children.
The Ministry of Science and Technology funded a project focused on ICT social inclusion in
cooperation with Mandume Ya Ndemufayo University, located in Huila Province from 2012 - 2014
with a budget of $72,000. The aim of this project was to reduce unemployment through building
local ICT capabilities for self-employment or competing for public or private employment.
CNTI implemented a pilot project focused on providing free Internet access in parts of Luanda
located near library services and basic and higher education.
Complementing fixed and mobile techcenters, the ReMA (Mediatecas Network Angola) Media
Libraries provide a range of services (particularly for youth) including training on ICT, social
entrepreneurship and management. 25 Mediatecas are planned across all Angolan provinces, of
which the first four in Luanda, Benguela, Huila and Zaire were launched in 2012 followed by
Saurimo, Soyo and Huambo in 2013 and Cabinda, Uige, Malange, Bie, Luanda and Cunene in
22 www.afdb.org/en/news-and-events/article/afdb-approves-us-90-million-loan-to-promote-science-and-technology-in-angola-14874/ 23 www.portalangop.co.ao/angola/en_us/noticias/educacao/2012/5/23/MED-Unitel-design-Internet-access-project,080fb95e-5b29-48c1-ade4-36c01ff498c8.html 24 www.ionline.pt/artigos/mundo/angola-investe-16-milhoes-na-informatizacao-300-salas-aula-todo-pais
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2014. They include a Fonoteca to listen to sound file, a Video Library, Imagoteca to view photos,
Testoteca for research as well as traditional libraries. The KOHA platform is a web services that
supports Internet access to digital libraries.
Angola is represented in two FP7 projects, IST-Africa 2014-2015 and PREFACE - Enhancing
prediction of tropical Atlantic climate and its impacts (2013-2017).
2.4. National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
2.4.1 National ICT Research Priorities
Angola has a number of national ICT Research Priorities, which include:
Creation of modern ICT infrastructures
design of Management systems
eLearning
ICT solar energy efficient use
Informatics and Electronics
Social Digital Inclusion
The table below summarises the priority of some key research areas for Angola
Research Area Prioirty Importance to Angola Institutions Involved
Application of IT in the management of state institutions
- to improve the government organization and functionality;
- integration of government network (Ministries, Local Government, etc);
- creation of information system for public service
- create the Economy integrated system of information
- create the Information system of C&T, Natural Resources and Environment.
Government and partners
Application of IT in socio-economic activities
- to formulate and implement information systems in national economics management, financing and banks
- modernize all economic sectors;
- improve the government analyses on economy
Government and partners
ICT in education and Human Capacity
- application of ICT in education and human capacity;
- creation and implementation of technological courses at HEI;
- development the concept and implementation of national plans for education and training
- create national capacities in ICT;
- promote dissemination of ICT at Medium level education;
- dissemination of ICT cross-country;
- promoting the ICT culture
Government and partners
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Research on ICT - technology transfer - design of systems - build centres of research
- create internal capacity - develop national products
Government and partners
Create bases for a software industry
- promote SME on software and hardware production
- define policy and laws of incentives
- creation of mechanisms to develop national industry
- development of national capacity
- compete at regional and international level
Government Private
Infrastructure in computers networks
- computer architecture - built a national network for data sharing,
Evaluation of ICT - building national capacity in evaluation
- evaluate the national system on ICT
Government and partners
2.4.2 National ICT Research Capacity
The following universities and research centres in Angola are undertaking ICT-related initiatives:
Agostinho Neto University (Science Faculty and uniNet)
Universidade Mandume Ya Ndemufayo (ISPH)
Universidade Católica de Angola
Universidade Metodista de Angola
Universidade Lueji A´nkonde (Medicine Faculty)
2.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders the following thematic areas are considered to be
important in the context of the ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Partners include
eHealth Instituto Superior Politécnico de Benguela (Engineering Department); Universidade Agostinho Neto; Instituto Nacional de saúde Pública; CEDUMED;
Universidade Lueji A´nkonde (Medicine Faculty)
eAgriculture Universidade Agostinho Neto; University Kimpa Vita (Higher Polytechnic School); Universidade Jose Eduardo dos Santos (UJES)
Environment Universidade Agostinho Neto; Universidade Independente de Angola, Universidade Metodista de Angola
2.4.4 Mapping to H2020 Themes
The table below summarises some of the key research and innovation stakeholders in Angola and
maps their interests against the key pillars of the Horizon 2020 LEIT Work Programme.
Horizon 2020 Themes Institution, relevant Dept, Research area
Components and Systems Universidade Agostinho Neto (Science Faculty and uniNet) Universidade Mandume Ya Ndemufayo (ISPH) Universidade Católica de Angola
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Next Generation Computing Universidade Agostinho Neto (Science Faculty and uniNet) Universidade Mandume Ya Ndemufayo (ISPH) Universidade Católica de Angola
Future Internet Universidade Agostinho Neto (Science Faculty and uniNet) Universidade Mandume Ya Ndemufayo (ISPH) Universidade Católica de Angola
Content Technologies & Information Management
Universidade Agostinho Neto (Science Faculty and uniNet) Universidade Mandume Ya Ndemufayo (ISPH) Universidade Católica de Angola
Advanced Interfaces and Robotics
Universidade Agostinho Neto (Science Faculty and uniNet) Universidade Mandume Ya Ndemufayo (ISPH) Universidade Católica de Angola Universidade Metodista de Angola
Health Instituto Nacional de saúde Pública CEDUMED Universidade Lueji A´nkonde (Medicine Faculty) Instituto Superior Politecnico de Saúde de Benguela (ISPSB)
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture
Universidade Jose Eduardo dos Santos (UJES)
Environment Universidade Independente de Angola
Level of Research Maturity
In Angola, the level of research maturity is variable depending the level of human resources,
infrastructure and technology. Current research work is primarily focused on the development of
software for management systems, business intelligent and applications. It is important to emphasis
that institutions such as Universidade Agostinho Neto, University Mandume Ya Ndemufayo,
Catholic University of Angola and Methodist University of Angola are the main actors on that
research. Universidade Agostinho Neto has presented papers at IST-Africa 2014 and IST-Africa
2015 Conferences to raise visabilty of the research being undertaken in the health domain.
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3. REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA
3.1 Introduction
The Republic of Botswana is in Southern Africa. Botswana
is bordered by Namibia on the west and north, Zambia at a
narrow strip in the north, Zimbabwe on the east, and South
Africa on the east and south. Botswana has an area of
581,730 sq km with an estimated population of 2.182
million inhabitants (estimate July 2015, CIA World
FactBook) and a literacy rate of 88.5%. 63% percent of the
total population is between 15 and 64 years of age.
Gaborone, the capital city, has a population of about 247,
000 (2014). The official language is English.
Botswana has maintained one of the world’s highest
economic growth rates since independence in 1966. This
is largely attributed to mining of diamonds, which collectively make up one of the world’s largest
diamond reserves. The revenue earned from diamonds drive Botswana’s economy. However,
recent economic and political changes in the region encouraged the Government to explore other
means of diversifying the economy as dependence on mineral wealth forms a narrow economic
base and are not sustainable. The Government established a Botswana and Economic Advisory
Council (BEAC) in August 2005, who developed the “Botswana Excellence -- A Strategy for
Economic Diversification and Sustainable Growth” and Action Plan. The Action Plan outlines
projects aimed at driving implementation of the Economic Diversification and Sustainable Growth
Strategy. The Action Plan and Strategy were approved by Cabinet in December 2006 and
November 2008 respectively.
The development of a national ICT framework is perceived as a shift from a factor endowments
economy to an efficiency driven economy that will pave way to an innovative driven economy. In
this context Botswana’s first National Information and Communications Technology Policy was
approved by Parliament in 2007 [Maitlamo National Policy for ICT Development 2007]. In terms of
ICT infrastructure, there are two diversified fibre links to South Africa. There are also radio links to
Namibia, Zimbabwe and Zambia. There are also direct Satellite links to UK, US, Canada as well as
direct connectivity to London through SAT3 undersea cable. Botswana invested in fibre-optic
networks locally and international to ensure good communication infrastructure. These include:
NEPAD-Led Undersea Cable, East African Submarine System (EASSy), West African Festoon
System and West Africa Coast Cable System (WACS). The National Backbone (TransKalahari
Fibre Optic Ring) was installed in 2008 and funded by Botswana Telecommunications Corporation
(the incumbent fixed line operator). The cross border fibre optic cable connections connect
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Botswana to South Africa, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. An Internet Exchange point was set up
in 2005.
In relation to telecommunications, according to Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority at
March 2015 there were 168,433 fixed phone lines subscriptions, 3.406 million mobile phone
subscriptions and 34,435 broadband subscriptions. According to the BOCRA 2015 Annual Report,
tele-density of mobile telephony was 168% in March 2015 and mobile Internet penetration has
increased from 49% in March 2014 to 59% in March 2015.
Further penetration of ICTs, especially in rural areas, to bridge the digital divide is necessary to
continue the development and integration of Botswana into the global economy. A number of
infrastructure projects, such as submarine optic fibre cables linking the west and east coasts of
Africa, were undertaken to improve reliability, capacity and speed of the national network, and
thereby ensure better interconnectivity with neighbouring countries and globally.
There are 2 public universities and 4 Universities. There are also eight public Higher Education
Institutes including DVET and nine private Higher Education Institutes.
3.2 ICT Background
The National Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Policy builds on Government
initiatives and aims to assist in achieving Vision 2016 by serving as a key catalyst in achieving
social, economic, political and cultural transformation within the country.
The development of the National ICT Policy actively involved a wide range of participants from the
public and private sectors, and civil society. It also took into account that relatively few people in
Botswana own PCs or have access to the Internet at home. Many users rely on access to PCs and
the Internet through employment or while receiving an education.
The overall objectives of the ICT Policy are to assist with three specific outcomes:
Creation of an enabling environment for the growth of an ICT industry in the country;
Provision of universal service and access to ICT facilities in the country; and
Making Botswana a Regional ICT Hub to make the country’s ICT sector globally competitive.
To manage its complexity, the National ICT Policy is developed in the following key areas:
Establishing the National ICT Vision, Goals and Objectives - to identify desired outcomes
E-Readiness and Benchmarking – to establish the current level of ICT diffusion
National ICT Policy – to identify and explain the key programmes and projects that are required
to achieve the National ICT Vision, Goals and Objectives
National ICT Master Plan – to define the various programmes and projects in greater detail,
identifying the project deliverables, timelines, resources, programme dependencies and
preliminary cost estimates
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An ICT Monitoring and Evaluation Programme – to measure progress and benefits achieved
In December 2010, an ICT Committee was constituted in the National Assembly. This was a
promising development, as it provides a framework for Parliamentary oversight of National Policy in
this important domain. The Ministry of Transport and Communications reports to the ICT Committee
on the implementation of Maitlamo.
Botswana established a National Science and Technology Policy in 1998 through which all Science
and Technology related developments could be coordinated. This policy was later revised during
2011 and a new Research, Science, Technology and Innovation Policy was approved by Cabinet
and launched in 2012 to respond to the rapid technological evolution, globalisation, and national
development goals as outlined in Vision 2016, National Development Plans and Millennium
Development Goals.
The National Research, Science and Technology Plan (2006 - 2011) highlighted the requirement to
leverage Research and Technology Development (RTD) and Innovation cooperation through the
Framework Programme for RTD, capacity-building under UN-Habitat, various technology platforms
and partnerships. ICT, Innovation and the Information Society at large are highlighted as a key tool
for achieving its development objectives. The Department of Research Science and Technology
(DRST) provides leadership in science and technology in Botswana on behalf of Government.
Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI), a parastatal under the Ministry
of Infrastructure Science and Technology, conducts needs-based research and development in
focused areas in accordance with national priorities.
Botswana has created a converged communications regulatory environment by establishing the
Communications Regulatory Authority Act of 2012 [No. 19 of 2012] to replace the previous separate
regulation of telecommunications and broadcasting (Telecommunications Act (72:03) and the
Broadcasting Act (72:04)).
Botswana Telecommunications Authority (BTA) was established as an independent regulatory body
to create and sustain an effective communications regulatory environment in Botswana. The
Communications Regulatory Authority Act (2012) merged BTA and National Broadcasting Board
(NBB) into the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA), which was launched in
April 2013. It is an independent telecommunications regulatory authority as per CAP 72:03, vested
with authority to regulate and supervise all aspects of telecommunication common carriers and
service providers that fall under its jurisdiction. The BOCRA is also mandated by the Broadcasting
Act (CAP 72:04) to offer Secretariat services to the National Broadcasting Board (NBB) with regard
to technical matters. BOCRA has a core mandate to create a transparent enabling regulatory
environment through: managing the frequency spectrum; resolving industry disputes; setting
industry standards; setting tariff principles and appropriate guidelines. BOCRA also ensures
compliance with communications services regulatory framework through the management and
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monitoring of: service quality; customer satisfaction levels; broadcasting content; frequency
spectrum; and terms and license conditions.
The issuance of service neutral licenses to Botswana’s three major telephone and mobile operators
in the market (Botswana Telecommunications Corporation, Mascom, Orange and beMobile) is
viewed as liberalization of Botswana’s telecommunications industry. The license authorizes the
three operators to provide national public telecommunication services over fixed or mobile, wire line
or wireless, network links, using any available technology. However, BTC is the only fixed line
operator in Botswana.
In 2012 BTC was split into two separate entities: Botswana Fibre Networks (BoFiNet) which is
responsible for backbone fibre infrastructure access (wholesale focus) and BTC which is retail in
focus and will be privatised.
Botswana is also hosting the Telecommunications Regulators Association of Southern Africa
(TRASA) Programme office. TRASA is responsible for harmonisation of the Postal and Information
Communications and Technologies (ICT) regulatory environment in the SADC region in order to
improve the Postal and ICT business environment and investment climate in SADC.
An eGovernment Strategy was launched in 2012 and is coordinated by the Office of the President.
eGovernment implementation is still ongoing with plans to iteratively provide most services online.
The Electronic Communications and Transactions Bill were approved in 2013. The implementation
of the National Public Key infrastructure (PKI) is envisaged.
3.3 Current ICT Initiatives and projects
ICT Initiatives primarily focus on Digital Divide, eGovernment, Innovation and Entrepreneurship
including:
Connecting Communities Programme
Kitsong Centres
Thuto Net
Government On-Line
Botswana Innovation Hub
BTC Privatisation & Formation of Botswana Fibre Network (BOFINET) company
Broadband Strategy & Universal Access and Services (UAS)
Digital Migration
Pan African e-Network Project
3.3.1 Connecting Communities Programme
This Programme was focused on providing demand driven information relevant to the needs and
conditions of the local people. With the purpose of connecting communities in rural, remote and
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urban communities with affordable and accessible computer and Internet services, 197 communities
were identified to be provided with network coverage under the NTELETSA ΙΙ telecommunication
project. The project was focused on supplying and maintaining network infrastructure in rural areas
of Botswana. The project was completed in 2011.
The communities were grouped using ‘Logical Zones’ based on geography and population. The
logical zones have further been divided into regional networks or “underserved areas” to provide an
economy of scale; the larger the area the greater the business that will allow operators to prosper
and grow. This consolidation of logical zones resulted in the creation of 4 underserved areas. The
three mobile telephone service providers; Mascom, Orange and Botswana Telecommunications
Cooperation [beMobile] were awarded tenders in the four underserved areas (regional networks).
3.3.2 Kitsong Centers
The Rural Telecommunications Programme targets provision of essential infrastructure services in
rural areas. Services include Internet lines, telephones and secretariat services.
Kitsong Centres were initially set up in 2006/2007 as community access centres as one of the
Maitlamo ICT Policy Initiatives. Initially Kitsong Centres were set up in each community but there
are now c. 149 Kitsong centres across the country. These community access centres provide
access to computers, fax, voice services and internet access as well as a range of on-line
information including: local and community information, business information services, government
information and services such as school registration, birth certificates, livestock tracking and
passport applications. There are also Botswana Postal Services Telecentres and private telecentres
set up as Community initiatives.
3.3.3 Thuto Net
The Thuto Net program was an expansive project that incorporates the Schools Connectivity
Initiative, to link all secondary schools to the Internet. All secondary schools in Botswana have
computer laboratories comprising about 15-20 computers. This initiative was aimed at reducing
literacy gaps between students in urban schools and rural schools. To fast track the program, the
Department responsible for laying infrastructure worked closely with the Department of Education to
train teachers on using ICT as a classroom tool.
3.3.4 Government-On-Line
The Government of Botswana undertook major service delivery reform programmes aimed at
improving service quality. A government web portal with information and e-services was developed
to be customer focused making the organizational structure of government more transparent to
citizens and business. Some of the Government Ministries have Call Centres for customers to
submit and enquire about services through Toll-Free numbers. Call centres provides basic
information and services and information about the Ministry and use toll free phones.
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The Botswana eGovernment initiative focused on transformation and not just automation. eServices
include:
Mobile-notification include: Drivers Licence expiry notification service, Vehicle flagging and
Registration Renewal, Agriculture Business Imports ban notification, Health and HIV & AIDS
notifications, Member of Parliament meeting etc
Cattle brand collection and expiry notification service, Ministry of Agriculture, Internal Funding
Passport notification services, Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs, Internal Funding
National Identity notification services, Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs, Internal Funding
Company Registration Name search feature: www@gov.bw Ministry of Trade & Industry,
Internally Funded
Trade Permits & License, Ministry of Trade & Industry, Internally Funding
The Ministry of Agriculture developed a Livestock Identification and Trace-back System to maintain
a record of all the cattle in the country, and also track the exposure level of each animal to
contagious diseases. The system uses data from other Government department like the National
citizen identification system for identifying cattle owners.
Ministry of Education and Skills Development provides access to examination results via mobile
phone.
3.3.5 Botswana Innovation Hub (BIH)
The concept to develop the Botswana Innovation Hub (BIH) commenced in 2008 in tandem with
development of Botswana’s ICT infrastructure and Botswana Excellence Strategy to support
economic diversification, job creation and transition to a knowledge economy.
BIH is primarily focused on four sectors through which businesses, research and training
can be provided: Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Bio-Technology,
Energy and Mineral Technology. It is responsible for stimulating start-ups, providing an enabling
environment for investors and developing and managing Botswana’s first Science and Technology
Park. The development of the National Science Park is due for completion during 2016.
Programmes include the First Steps Venture Centre, Microsoft Innovation Centre, Cleantech and
KitsoWorks. BIH is receiving support through the Southern African Innovation Support (SAIS)
Programme funded by Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland to establish a Global Business Lab and
Technology Transfer Office within the University of Botswana; develop a Demand Driven Supply
Chain Business Incubation Model; and address youth unemployment and local communities
through Living Labs and Training (RLabs Botswana).
BIH is located close to the airport and offers services in the form of office space, land, state of the
art telecommunications services, technology transfer services and entrepreneurship development.
The Government of Botswana has put tax incentives in place to encourage Foreign Direct
Investment.
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3.3.6 Botswana Telecommunications Corporation (BTC) Privatisation
In 2012 the Government of Botswana embarked on the privatisation of Botswana
Telecommunications Corporation (BTC), the incumbent fixed line telecoms operator, which was due
to be completed by end of 2014. The company was established in 1980 to provide, develop, operate
and manage Botswana's national and international telecommunications services. BTC is a
parastatal in which the Botswana government holds 100% equity. BTC was the only
telecommunications provider in Botswana until 1996 when an amendment of the
Telecommunication Act removed the monopoly of BTC and allowed indirect competition from two
cellular companies, Mascom Wireless and Vista Communications (now Orange). Botswana
Telecommunications Corporation (BTC) - Implementation of BTC’s privatisation commenced
immediately after Cabinet approved of a privatisation strategy in June 2006.
The implementation of BTC’s privatisation commenced in 2010. The national backbone (Trans
Kalahari optic fibre network and Gaborone – Francistown loop) is not included in the privatisation as
this is transferred to BoFINet and the Government will continue to deliver developmental
programmes such as the rural telecommunications programme (Nteletsa).
During Phase 2 BTC Ltd was separated into two entities - BTC (retail) and BoFINet (wholesale) and
the following assets were transferred to BoFiNet:
All local and national access dark fibres systems
The newly deployed Dense Wave Division Multiplex (DWDM) system fibre and associated active
electronic equipment
The East African Sea System (EASSY) and West African Cable System (WACS)
BTC launched its IPO in November 2014, whereby the Government of Botswana offered 49% of
BTC shares (44% can be bought by individual investors and local firms and 5% is retained for an
Employee Share Ownership Programme). The Government planned that the finance raised will
support BTC's current network expansion plans.
3.3.7 Broadband Strategy & Universal Access and Services
The development of a five-year Broadband strategy is now at the final stages with the Draft
Broadband Strategy being made available in August 2013.
The Government of Botswana, through the Ministry of Transport and Communications, had
identified broadband as an area requiring special attention to enable of economic growth as being
one of the top priorities within the National ICT Policy. The objective is to formulate a strategy that
will enable the Botswana Government to transform the economy and society through the adoption
and utilization of broadband services. The broadband services should meet the following criteria:
1. Nationwide availability and access to all
2. Open Access.
3. Scalability.
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4. Affordability.
5. User and Consumer friendliness.
6. Choice of broadband services
7. Making Botswana a regional ICT Hub.
It is planned that the Kitsong Centres will increase day-to-day access to broadband services.
The Universal Access and Services policy has been under development for some time. BOCRA
published a draft Universal Access and Service Fund Manual in April 2014. The vision of the
Universal Access and Services Policy is that all Botswana will have Universal service with
affordable voice communications and access to Internet and ICT services, regardless of their
location within the country.
3.3.8 Digital Migration
The digital switchover process is happening all over the world. In South Africa & Europe the target
date for completion of digital switch over is 2011 & 2012 respectively. It was agreed at the
International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Regional Radiocommunications Conference in 2006
that by 2015 African and European countries should have completed the digital switchover.
Botswana Television (BTV) and Gaborone Broadcasting Company (GBCTV) are currently
transmitted through analogue transmitters.
In Botswana, a Reference Group was established on 07 February 2008 to kick start the digital
switchover/migration process. The Minister of Communication, Science and Technology (MCST)
(now Ministry of Transport and Communications) established a Digital Migration Task Force to
develop a roadmap on how the country can migrate from analogue to digital television. ISDB-T was
chosen after "a thorough process of research and evaluation of available options" comparing DVB-
T2 and ISDB-T. The digital migration broadcasting was launched in Botswana in July 2013.
3.3.9 Pan African eNetwork Project
Botswana is a participant in the Pan African e-Network project, which focused on connecting African
countries as one network through satellite and fibre optic links for providing electronic and
knowledge connectivity. The network primarily provides effective communication and connectivity. It
also provides tele-education, tele-medicine and VVIP service. In total the project aimed to inter-
connect Universities, Learning Centres, Super Specialty Hospitals and Remote Hospitals in the
membership of the e-Network project. Botswana identified 3 Very Small Aperture Terminals [Vsat]
Sites comprising a Tele-Education Centre (learning Centre) at the University of Botswana, a Tele-
medicine Centre (Patient-end-terminal) at a referral hospital (Nyangabgwe Referral Hospital in the
North part of the country and a VVIP Location at the Office of the President.
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3.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
3.4.1 National ICT Research Priorities
National ICT Research Priorities include: eInfrastructures, Technology-enhanced Learning,
Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security, Entrepreneurship, Cyber Security, Energy and Water
Ecosystem, Sustainable Development and Climiate Change and eHealth.
3.4.2 National ICT Research Capacity
The following universities and research centres in Botswana are undertaking ICT-related initiatives:
University of Botswana, Dept of Computer Science25 - Advance Computing; Information
Management; Components and Systems; eInfrastructures
University of Botswana, Harry Oppenheimer Okavango Research Centre26
University of Botswana, School of Medicine – Health/ eHealth Sciences; eInfrastructures;
Simulations
Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST)27 – CITE
Department – ICT for Healthcare, Technology-enhanced Learning, Resource efficiency; MEGE
Department – Transport, Energy; Applied Sciences – Cyber Security; Earth & Environmental
Sciences – Embedded Systems, Wireless Communications, Robotics, Software Simulation
Limkomkwing University of Creative Technology28 - Faculty of ICT – Technology-enhanced
learning, Advanced computing architecture, Future Internet (Interactive multimedia, wireless
communication)
Botho University29 - Faculty of Computing – Cloud Computing, Data mining in Education, Grid
Computing, Robotics, Machine Learning, Cyber Security
Botswana Accounting College – Department of Computing and Information Systems - Data
analytics for Health, Technology-enhanced learning, cyber security optimisation, content access
and analytics
Botswana Technology Centre (BOTEC)30
3.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders the following thematic areas are considered to be
important in the context of the ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Partners include
eHealth University of Botswana (School of Medicine); Botswana International
25 http://www.ub.bw/learning_progs.cfm?pid=587 26 http://www.orc.ub.bw/ 27 http://www.biust.ac.bw/ 28 http://www.limkokwing.net/botswana/ 29 http://www.bothocollege.ac.bw/ 30 http://www.botec.bw/
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University of Science and Technology (CITE Department); Botswana Accounting College (Department of Computing and Information Systems)
eAgriculture University of Botswana; Botswana National Food Research Centre
Technology-enhanced Learning
Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (Faculty of ICT); Botswana International University of Science and Technology (CITE Department)
Energy Botswana International University of Science and Technology (MEGE Department)
Sustainable Development and Climate Change
Botswana International University of Science and Technology (MEGE Department)
3.4.3 Mapping to H2020 Themes
Based on an initial consultation process, each University has identified their areas of research
expertise and track record and has been encouraged to develop an organisational profile. A
summary of these findings are provided below:
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Components and Systems University of Botswana, Dept of Computer Science- Smart Embedded Components and Systems
Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST), Earth & Environmental Sciences – Embedded Systems
Advanced Computing University of Botswana, Computer Science Dept - Processor and System Architecture
Limkomkwing University of Creative Technology - Faculty of ICT – Processor and System Architecture, Simulation Software
Future Internet University of Botswana Computer Science Dept - Networks
Limkomkwing University of Creative Technology - Faculty of ICT – Interactive Multimedia, Wireless Communications
Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) - Earth & Environmental Sciences - Wireless Communications
Botho University - Faculty of Computing – Cloud Computing, Grid Computing
Content Technologies & Information Management
Limkokwing University of Creative Technology - Faculty of ICT - Technologies for Language, Learning, Interaction, Digital Preservation, Content Access and Analytics; Big Data Technologies' Advanced Data Mining, Machine Learning, Statistical Analysis and Visual Computing
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Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) – CITE Department – Technology-enhanced Learning
Botho University - Faculty of Computing – Machine Learning
Botswana Accounting College – Department of Computing and Information Systems - Technology-enhanced learning, content access and analytics
Robotics Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) - Earth & Environmental Sciences – Robotics
Botho University - Faculty of Computing – Robotics
Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health University of Botswana, School of Medicine - Health/ eHealth Sciences
Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) – CITE Department – ICT for Healthcare
Botswana Accounting College – Department of Computing and Information Systems - Data analytics for Health
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture Botswana National Veterinary Laboratory Research on Animal Health: Epidemiology & control of foot and mouth disease, Causes of infertility in cattle, sheep & goats
Research on Foot Safety: Human causing disease bacteria in meat and milk, chemical & antibiotic residues in meat
Research on Public Health - Epidemiology & control of zoonotic diseases (e.g. rabies, anthrax) at the human/animal-wildlife interface
Botswana National Food Research Centre – Food Technology; Food Biochemistry; Food Microbiology & Biotech; Nutrition & Dietetics; Extension & Training
Energy Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) –MEGE Department – Energy
Transport Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) –MEGE Department – Transport
Secure Societies Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) –Applied Sciences – Cyber Security
Botho University - Faculty of Computing – Cyber Security
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Level of Research Maturity
Botswana is currently trying to diversify its economy and attracting international research units and
software companies to base themselves in the Botswana Innovation Hub is a signal of the strategic
positioning the government is taking to increase the level of research maturity of the country.
One of the key challenges is the small number of research institutions. While the current primary
focus is on technology adoption and developing applications, there is a strong policy focus on
further strengthening the research capacity within the country, and especially in facilitating the
continued development of post-graduate programmes and involvement in cross-border research.
Participation in 9 FP7 projects, Horizon 2020 projects and other International programmes such as
the Southern Africa Innovation Support Programme (SAIS) funded by Ministry of Foreign Affairs of
Finland (2011 – 15) will also assist in building international partnerships.
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4. REPUBLIC OF BURUNDI
4.1 Introduction
The Republic of Burundi is situated in Central Africa,
sharing boundaries with Democratic Republic of the
Congo, Rwanda and Tanzania. It is a landlocked
country and has a surface area of 27,830 sq km, made
up of 17 provinces. The population is estimated at
10,742,276 inhabitants (July 20154 est. CIA World
FactBook) with a literacy rate of 85.6%. 48% of the
total population is between 15 and 64 years of age.
The capital city is Bujumbura with a population of
751,000 (2015). Kirundi is the national language with
French as the official language. Other languages
spoken are Swahili and English.
Burundi joined the East African Community, which improves regional trade ties. The economy is
predominantly agricultural with primary exports of coffee and tea. Burundi is currently dependent on
bilateral and multilateral aid.
In relation to Communications, there were 21,696 fixed line subscribers in June 2015, 4.328 million
mobile phone subscribers in June 2015 (2.53 million 2013) according to Agence de Regulation et
del Controle des Telecom (ARCT). There are six ISPs, with approximately 3,652 fixed line Internet
subscribers with 856,062 mobile internet subscribers as at September 2015 (ARCT).
In terms of ICT Infrastructure, the Government of Burundi in cooperation with the World Bank is
undertaking a 13,000 kilometre fibre-optic project to cover Bujumbura, 17 provinces and the
borders. This will help reduce communication costs in Burundi.
The regulator is Agence de Regulation et de Controle des Telecommunications (ARCT). Mobile
operators include U-Com, Onatel Burundi, Econet Wireless Burundi, Africell Burundi, Lacell SU and
Vietnam's Vietell Telecom (recently licence). Two mobile operators in Burundi have launched 3G
broadband in the expectation of reduced Internet access costs.
There are 7 public universities and 24 private institutions of Higher Education.
4.2 ICT Background
Burundi considers ICT to be an important enabler that can facilitate developments and job
opportunities in the country. The Government of Burundi is committed to encouraging the
integration of ICT in all spheres of society. The telecommunications sector is liberalised but Internet
access is predominantly restricted to public points of access in cyber cafes in the capital,
Bujumbura.
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The National eGovernment Strategy was adopted in 2009 and the Executive Secretary for ICT
(SETIC) is responsible for coordinating this activity.
The National ICT Development Policy was jointly formulated by the Government and UNDP in
October 2000 and adopted in 2004. Subsequently the Government approached UNECA to work
with them to develop and fund an ICT action plan for the period 2007 – 2011. UNESCO undertook a
survey of Higher Education institutions in 2008.
The National ICT Policy was revised and adopted in 2011 to make it more compliant with the
regional framework and more in line with technology convergence. It has ten pillars including:
Capacity building
Enhancement of the Legal and Regulatory Environment
Promotion of ICT infrastructure
E-government, e-Governance and Online Administration.
ICT and Economic development
ICT and Social Development
Rural Connectivity and Universal Access
ICT Research and Innovation
Electronic Transactions and Cybersecurity
Local and Regional Content Development
The Government of Burundi has led several activities in relation to the use of ICT in the service of
the socio-economic development and Good Governance under the responsibility of the National
Committee. These activities include: development of the National Policy in STI, launch of an optical
fibre project, plans to provide computers in the Higher Education system, a policy for free changes
when importing ICT equipment and the development of partners in ICT Networking (such as
participation in the IST-Africa Initiative).
A National Policy for Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) was developed and adopted in June
2011. This policy outlines various actions that the Government intends to take in order to ensure
that R&D and Innovation activities are adequately funded. Its implementation framework for 2014 –
2018 was validated in July 2013. The STI Policy was officially launched on 08 August 2014 by H.E.
Hon. Dr Ir Gervais Rufyikiri, Second Deputy President of the Republic of Burundi.
The Decree to set up a National Council or Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation
was signed on 16 July 2014. Currently there is no dedicated mechanism to fund R&D and
Innovation at a national level.
The World Bank supported the National Backbone system to link the provinces. The design phase
commenced in early 2008. The first phase of the fibre optic project (1,000km covering nine of the 17
provinces) is operational and was officially launched by President Pierre Nkurunziza on 21 January
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2014. President Nkurunziza confirmed the investment of $25 million in the fibre optic project as a
public private partnership to increase access to broadband and reduce costs.
4.3 Current ICT Initiatives and Projects
ICT Initiatives are primarily focused on eInfrastructure and eGovernment. A metropolitan area
network has been set up in Bujumbura, Gitega Province and Ngozi Province. Telecentre is
facilitating Internet access within secondary schools.
4.3.1 Broadband Wireless Network
ITU implemented the Broadband Wireless Network Project in Burundi. The main outputs of this
project include: Deployment of wireless broadband infrastructure in Burundi; Development of ICT
applications; Training local experts on the operation of deployed wireless communication networks;
Development of national ICT broadband network plans for Burundi that will deliver free or low cost
digital access for schools and hospitals, and for underserved populations in rural and remote areas;
Development of an impact assessment report and reporting. This project commenced in 2009 and
finished in December 2014.
4.3.2 Establishment of National CIRT
ITU implemented the establishment of the National Computer Incident Response Team (CIRT) in
Burundi. This project aimed to assist the Government of Burundi in building and deploying the
technical capabilities and training required to establish the national CIRT. This will also assist in
developing national cybersecurity capacity. This project ran from January 2013 to February 2015.
4.3.3 Regional Communications Infrastructure Project
This regional project focused on Burundi, Kenya and Madagascar to support the enabling
environment, connectivity and preparation for eGovernment applications. This project supported by
World Bank and partners and implemented by Ministère des Télécommunications, de l'Information,
de la Communication et des Relations avec le Parlement commenced in 2007. The project in
Burundi was restructured in April 2013 with the project life extended until April 2014.
4.3.3 Burundi Education and Research Network (BENET)
The ICT Executive Secretariat (SETIC) sponsored the creation of Burundi NREN through the
establishment of a physical Last Mile connection to 15 public and private higher education
institutions which form the core members of BERNET. SETIC has also secured the Association’s
membership in UbuntuNetAlliance and acquired a block of IP addresses from Afrinic. BERNET is
up and running as a non-profit Association in formation governed by an Executive Committee
supported by an in-house Technical Team. Through UbuntuNet Alliance BERNET should benefit
from the Africa Connect 2 project.
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4.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
4.4.1 National Priorities
In accordance with Burundi’s National STI Policy (2011) and its Implementation Action Plan 2014 -
2018, the following critical strategic sectors have been identified:
Agro-food Technology
Medical Science
Energy, Mining and Transport
Water, Environment and Desertification
Biotechnology and Indigenous Knowledge
Materials Science, Engineering and Industries
ICT, Spatial Science and Mathematics
Humanities and Social Science
National ICT Research Priorities include:
ICT Infrastructure Development including fibre optic to provide high speed, high bandwidth
connectivity at a more cost effective cost, thus supporting the increase in internet and mobile
penetration in Burundi
Application of ICT in Education – Technology-enhanced learning and capacity building is a
priority both for Secondary Schools, Higher Education Institutions and TVET
Application of ICT in Governmental Services – priority areas include: Immigration, Biometric ID,
Land management (GIS) and Taxation
4.4.2 National Research Capacity
The following universities and research centers in Burundi are providing ICT/Engineering Courses
and /or undertaking ICT-related initiatives:
Université du Burundi (Bujumbura)
Departments include: ICT Department, Polytechnics Dept, Civil Engineering Dept
Research areas include: Components and Systems, Advanced Computing, Technology-
enhanced Learning, Health (Faculty of Medicine), Sustainable Agriculture (Faculty of
Agronomy and Bioengineering)
Université Lumière de Bujumbura31
Departments include: Faculté de Communication & Faculté d’Informatique de gestion;
Research areas include: Advanced Computing, Technology-enhanced learning
31 http://ulbu.bi/
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Université Espoir d’Afrique32
Departments include: Faculté des Lettres et des Sciences (Département d’informatique,
option Informatique et système de gestion de l’information & Département de la
Communication); Faculté d’ingénierie et de Technologie (Département d’Ingénierie en génie
et gestion des télécommunications);
Research areas include Public Health (Faculty of Medicine)
Université de Ngozi (Bujumbura)
Departments include: Faculty of Maths - Informatique; Faculty of Medicine; Faculty of
Agriculture
Research areas include: Components and Systems, Technology-enhanced Learning, Health
Sciences (Faculty of Medicine); Agriculture and Food Security
INITELEMATIQUE (Bujumbura)
Departments include: Informatics Engineering, Software Engineering
Research areas include: Component and Systems, Advanced Computing, Technology-
enhanced learning
Université des Grands Lacs33
Departments include: Faculté d’Informatique
Université du lac Tanganyika
Departments include: Informatics
Université Sagesse d’Afrique
Departments include: Informatics
Université Polytechnique de Gitega
Departments include: Faculty of ICT
International University of Equator
Departments include: Department of ICT
Institut Supérieur des Technologies (Bujumbura)
Departments include: Maintenance Informatics
Institut Supérieur Professionnel du MENVC
Département d’Informatique de maintenance
Institut Supérieur d’Enseignement Technique de Rumonge
Département d’Informatique de Gestion et de maintenance
32 http://www.hopeafricauniversity.org/ 33 http://www.ulpgl.net/
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Grand Séminaire de Burasira (Burasira, Ngozi)
Departments include: Management informatics
Université Martin Luther King
Departments include: Management informatics, Logistic and Computer Maintenance
Ecole Nationale d’Administration
Departments include: Informatics
Institut Supérieur de Développement (ISD) (Bujumbura)
Departments include: Administration et Sécurité des Réseaux, Computer Maintenance
Institut Supérieur de gestion et d’Informatique
Département des Technologies et de la Communication
Institut Supérieur des Techniques de gestion
Département d’Informatique de gestion
In total there are 45 Institutions of Higher Education in Burundi with over 55,000 students enrolled.
4.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders and the IST-Africa H2020 Training Workshop in Bujumbura
in November 2014, the following thematic areas were considered to be important in the context of
ICT-39: eHealth; eAgriculture; Climate action; Environment and Energy. It was noted that the focus
areas under the National Policy on Scientific Research and Technological Innovation (2014) is well
aligned with Societal Challenges under Horizon 2020.
Thematic Areas Partners include
eHealth University of Burundi; National Institute of Public Health; East Africa Community (EAC) Centre of Excellence in Public Health Training; Université de Ngozi; Université Espoir d’Afrique
eAgriculture University of Burundi; Université de Ngozi; National Center for Food Technology (CNTA); Institute of Agronomic Sciences (ISABU)
Energy University of Burundi; REGIDESO; ONATOUR
4.4.4 Mapping to H2020 Themes
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution, Relevant Dept.
Components and Systems University of Burundi (ICT Department, Polytechnics Dept, Civil Engineering Dept)
Université Lumière de Bujumbura (Informatics, Civil Engineering Dept)
INITELEMATIQUE (informatics Dept)
Université de Ngozi (Informatics Dept)
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Advanced Computing University of Burundi (ICT Department, Polytechnics Dept, Civil Engineering Dept)
Université Lumière de Bujumbura (Informatics Dept)
Université de Ngozi (Informatics Dept)
Future Internet Executive Secretariat for ICT (SETIC)
Content Technologies & Information Management
Executive Secretariat for ICT (SETIC)
University of Burundi (ICT Department, Polytechnics Dept, Civil Engineering Dept)
Université de Ngozi (Informatics Dept)
Université Lumière de Bujumbura (Informatics Dept, Civil Engineering Dept)
INITELEMATIQUE (Informatics Dept)
Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health University of Burundi, Faculty of Medicine: Malaria, HIV SIDA, Neglected tropical diseases, Telemedicine application; Faculty of Sciences: Phytochemicals & Traditional medicine
National Institute of Public Health (INSP): Malaria, HIV SIDA, Neglected tropical diseases
East Africa Community (EAC) Centre of Excellence in Public Health Training
Université de Ngozi, Health Science Institute/Faculty: Malaria, HIV SIDA, Neglected tropical diseases
Université Espoir d’Afrique, Faculty of Medicine: Public health
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture
University of Burundi, (Faculty of Agronomy and BioEngineering): edible fungi, improvement of rice production, tissue culture; IRRI-ESA: International Rice Research Institute for Eastern, Southern and Central Africa
National Center for Food Technology (CNTA) (Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock) - Research and development of food technology and the transfer and dissemination of these technologies to small enterprises.
Institute of Agronomic Sciences (ISABU) (Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock) - focus on maize, rice, cassava, potatoes, livestock etc.
Université de Ngozi, CERADER: Vegetable seeds multiplying; AGROBIOTECH: banana tissue culture
Energy REGIDESO (water and hydropower supply)
ONATOUR (Peat Supply)
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University of Burundi (Renewable Energy)
Level of Research Maturity
Burundi is slowly building up the institutions and infrastructure following twelve years of crisis up to
2005. The general level of research maturity in Burundi is limited, primarily due to lack of
international exposure, developing infrastructure and limited donor engagement. IST-Africa has
assisted greatly in this regard, by providing necessary resources, facilitating exchange of
experiences with both Europe and Africa, focusing international attention on Information Society and
ICT related challenges and opportunities in Burundi and providing opportunities to engage with
research stakeholders internationally. Complementary activities include the launch of an optical fibre
project, plans to invest in infrastructure and computers in the Higher Education system, a policy for
free charges when importing ICT equipment and the development of partners in ICT Networking
(such as participation in the IST-Africa Initiative).
One of the key challenges is the small number of institutions actively engaging in multidisciplinary
research. While the current primary focus is on technology adoption and developing applications,
there is a strong policy focus on strengthening research capacity within the country, and especially
in facilitating the continued development of post-graduate programmes and involvement in cross-
border research. The recent establishment of the National Research and Education Network
(BERNET) is very positive. There is now a much higher level of awareness of pan-African and
international ideas of what level of research maturity is required and a greater focus on the
development of research results with the potential to achieve sustainable socio-economic impact.
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5. REPUBLIC OF CAMEROON
5.1 Introduction
The Republic of Cameroon is situated in Central Africa,
sharing boundaries with Nigeria to the west, Chad to the
northeast, Central African Republic to the east, Congo,
Gabon and Equatorial Guinea to the south with direct
access to the Atlantic Ocean to the southwest. It is a
unitary state, with a surface area of 475,442 square km,
made up of ten regions subdivided in to fifty-eight (58)
divisions and further subdivided into 375 districts currently
in the process of decentralisation. The population as at
July 2015 was estimated at 23.739 million inhabitants with
a literacy rate of 75% (CIA World Factbook). 54 percent of
the total population is between 15 and 64 years of age.
Yaounde, the capital city, has a population of 3.066 million (2015) and Douala has a population of
2.946 million (2015). The official languages are English and French.
Cameroon is called Africa in miniature due to its strategic geographical location, diversified culture
(over 240 tribes composed of Bantus, Semi-Bantus, Soudanians, Hamites and Semites), two main
religions: Christianity and Islam, climate (tropical and humid in the south and dry in the north with
two seasons), vast equatorial forest found in most African countries. Its natural resources include:
Petroleum, Bauxite, iron ore, timber and hydropower.
In relation to Communications, according to 2014 figures (CIA World FactBook), there were 1.05
million fixed phone lines in use compared with 17.3 million mobile phones. There were c. 1.5 million
Internet users (2014).
In terms of ICT Infrastructure, there is a SAT-3 marine cable inward with access points in Douala
(main one), Limbe (WACS) and Kribi (ACE). There is a national backbone of over 6,000 km of fibre
optic cable laid down and financed by the Chinese Government. There is a fibre optic loop in
Douala and a second being laid in Yaounde. Cameroon is linked to Chad with fibre optic cable
under the Central African Backbone (CAB) project. VSAT Internet is widely used. The feasibility
study for establishment of a National Internet eXchange point (IXP) was financed by the World
Bank. The Government of Cameroon is currently establishing the national IXP and the project was
planned to be compled in Q1 2015 but due to some challenges encountered, the project is extended
to 2016/2017. There are 150 operational tele-centres, with a further 30 being put into service and 16
under construction.
There are eight public universities (University of Yaounde I; University of Douala; University of
Dschang; University of Buea; University of Yaounde II; University of Ngaoundere; University of
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Maroua and University of Bamenda), over 180 private institutions for Higher Education and several
laboratories.
5.2 ICT Background
The Republic of Cameroon has recognized that ICTs must be integrated in realising projects in
various sectors (education, health, agriculture, economy, energy etc.)
In September 2005, a sectoral strategy of Posts, Telecommunications and ICT together with the
sector policy statement relating thereto was finalized in a bid to influence the trends towards
reducing the proportion of poverty in half by 2015 with the following objectives:
increase the fixed (of 0.7% in 2005) and mobile (of 15% in 2005) teledensities to 30% and 50%
in 2015;
provide 20,000 villages with modern telecommunications facilities by 2015;
multiply by 50, the number of direct and indirect jobs in the field of telecommunications and ICT
by 2015.
The evaluation conducted at the end of 2015 determined that teledensity was 84% for mobile; 5%
for Fixed lines and 7% Internet. For the past decade in Cameroon, more than 20,000 jobs have
been created directly or indirectly in the ICT sector.
The implementation of this strategy was underpinned by the following three pillars:
Adapting and updating the legal, regulatory and institutional framework;
Improving service delivery in quantity, quality, and affordable;
Increasing the use of ICT and density the industrial fabric of ICT companies
The ICT sector is undergoing a process of liberalization since the promulgation of Law No. 98/014
of 14 July 1998 governing telecommunications in Cameroon.
While individual Ministries are responsible for different aspects of development, deployment and
exploitation of ICTs (e.g. Ministry of Communications, Ministry of Trade, National Agency for
Information and Communication Technologies – ANTIC, Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications
and Telecommunications Regulatory Board, National Centre for the Development of Computer
Services), the Presidency of the Republic defines and sets guidelines for National ICT policy, the
Prime Ministers’ Office is responsible for monitoring implementation of the ICT policy and the
National Assembly has a legislative responsibility, responsible for voting ICT related laws. A
committee was set up in August 2009 by a Prime Ministerial decree creating a pilot Committee for
monitoring the putting in place of the National Strategy for the Development of ICT headed by the
Minister of Post and Telecommunications. The National ICT and Telecommunication Strategy is
being revised and it is expected that the updated Strategy will be adopted in Q1 2015.
Established in 2002 (Decree No 2002/92 8 April 2002) and according to Law No. 2010/013 (21
December 2010) governing electronic communications and Law No. 2010/012 (21 December 2010)
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related to cyber security and cyber criminality in Cameroon, the National Agency for Information and
Communication Technologies (ANTIC) has the role to promote and monitor government activities in
the area of ICT. Its responsibilities include: developing and monitoring the implementation of the ICT
national development strategy; ensuring the harmonization of technical standards; proposing
technical references in order to facilitate interoperability among information systems and regulating
the sector; providing expertise to government services for design and development of their technical
projects; coordinating the establishment and monitoring of Internet, Intranet and Extranet sites for
the state and public institutions; contributing to the technical training of trainers for universities, high
schools, colleges, teacher training colleges and primary schools; and participating in the training of
the state personnel in ICTs by making recommendations on the content of the technical training and
on the programmes of professional and competitive examinations. It is also responsible for the
regulation, control and monitoring of activities related to the security of electronic communication
networks, information systems and electronic certification on behalf of the Government of
Cameroon. Following the Presidential Decree of 09 December 2011 re-organising the Cameroonian
government, ANTIC reports to the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunication.
Due to insufficient consultation and coordination amongst stakeholders involved in these sectoral
and ministry initiatives, ANTIC was tasked with formulating a National Policy for the Development of
ICT, which implements “some provisions of the Constitution, the Investment Code, education sector
laws, major guidelines of the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (which has been reviewed and
resulting in the Growth and Employment Strategy Paper) and honour commitments made by
Cameroon with regards to global poverty reduction efforts (Millennium Development Goals,
Education for All, Tunis Agenda for the Information Society, etc.)”. It was validated by the Head of
State, His Excellency President Paul Biya in January 2007 and it aims to provide:
A comprehensive framework for ICT development in line with national objectives;
A consultation and action framework for collaboration by the public sector (government) with the
private sector, civil society and development partners;
A framework for coordinating government action and external support, notably from the Digital
Solidarity Fund.
It was further revised in September 2009, with the main objective to operationalise the strategic
priorities identified new emphases on the consistency between programs and ICT projects and the
government strategy outlined in the National Objectives Framework (NOC). The review exercise
identified twelve prioritized programs based on the following seven strategic pillars retained from the
National Strategy for ICT Development: (i) Building Human capacities, (ii) Improving the legal,
regulatory and institutional framework, (iii) Strengthening the rule of law and sovereignty, (iv)
Infrastructure development, (v) Development of social sectors through the use of ICT, (vi)
Modernizing the public service and (vii) Development of an ICT industrial sector. The revised
National ICT and Telecommunication Strategy is due for adoption in Q1 2015.
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According to Law No. 2010/012 (21 December 2010) related to cyber security and cyber criminality
in Cameroon, ANTIC has the mandate to secure the Cameroonian cyberspace:
Annual audit of Information systems of Institutions (public and private), which include:
Telecommunication operators, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), financial institutions (Banks,
micro-finances, Insurance companies, Money transfer companies and eCommerce companies)
Under the National Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), ANTIC is the Root Certification Authority
(CA) and the Government CA. This is the only PKI system legally recognised in Cameroon. The
center was funded by South Korea and biometric passports are being produced.
According to the Ministry of Post and Telecommunication, after the liberalization of the
Telecommunications sector, Cameroon presently has four major telephone network operators
offering several services (MTN, Orange, CAMTEL & Nexttel), which influenced the increase of the
number of active mobile phone subscribers. At the end of 2013, Cameroon’s Telecommunication
Regulatory Board estimated market penetration rates in Cameroon’s telecoms sector to be: mobile
(69%), Fixed/fixed-wireless (3.6%) and Internet (6.6%). Nexttel, Vietnam’s telecom operator
commenced activities in September 2014 and is the first to roll out a 3G network in Cameroon.
5.3 Current ICT Initiatives and projects
Over the past few years, there have been a number of national initiatives focused on stimulating
the use of ICT as a development tool to alleviate poverty and other challenges. They include:
Government action plan for an information and knowledge-based society by Ministry of
Scientific Research and Innovation;
Implementation of ICT development programme by Ministry of Higher Education;
Creation of multimedia resource centres at secondary and high schools by Ministry of
Secondary Education;
Introduction of compulsory ICT related programs in Primary and Secondary schools;
Liberalisation of the audiovisual sector by the Ministry of Communication;
Implementation of National Governance Programme by the Prime Ministers’ Office;
Use of ICTs to manage State Personnel by Ministry of Public Service and Administrative
Reform (SIGIPES), the update of the system is at the implementation phase with financial and
technical help from European Union
Computerisation of National Identity Card by the Delegation of National Security; The
Government is currently analyzing the possibility of updating the system with the integration of
security related technologies such as the PKI and biometriques;
Issuing of Biometrique Passport by the Delegation of National Security;
Computerisation of Electoral Process by Ministry of Territorial Administration and
Decentralisation and
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Establishment of the national Public Key Infrastructure. Key national application secured with
this system include: e-procurement (management of public contracts), e-Guce (management of
the payment of importation/exportation dues at the sea port) and national social insurance
system.
External initiatives include:
Definition of National Information and Communication Plan (NICI Plan) by UNECA;
UNDP Initiative on ICT Policy in Cameroon within the framework of the Second Tokyo
International Conference for African Development (TICAD II);
ITU Support for formulation of MINPOSTEL Sector Strategy;
UNESCO Support to development of community and rural radios
5.3.1 The National Electrification Project
The electricity supply in Cameroon is below consumer’s satisfaction as there are power shortages
even in some parts of the major towns hence hindering access to information and communication
Technologies. Despite the efforts made by the electricity corporation (AES SONEL), some towns
can be without electricity for several hours or days.
A joint project to extend the road network and distribution of electricity in 400 localities in 8 regions
to serve an additional 332,000 new subscribers (covering 1,5 million inhabitants) was prepared.
By 2020, the Government aims to achieve a 48% countrywide electrification rate, a 75% electricity
access rate in urban areas and a 20% rural electrification rate. The project started in 2010.
Additionally, in March 2015 the Minister of the Economy, Planning and Regional Development, and
the General Manager of HUAWEI Technologies & Co. Limited signed a loan convention for 106
Million USD (about 53 billion CFAF), to finance phase one of the solar system electrification project
for 350 villages in Cameroon. The project execution timeframe is set at 18 months.
Organization(s)/funding sources: Loan agreement worth 22Billion FCFA between the ADB group
and Cameroon represented by the Minister of the Economy, Planning and Regional Management in
Tunis.
Geographic scope and time frame: National, ongoing to end by 2035.
In line with the National Strategy for ICT Development, certain programs or projects were identified
in September 2009. Most of the projects listed below are funded through the Public Investment
Fund. Some of these projects will receive funds from international donors including the African
Development Bank, World Bank and the European Union.
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5.3.2 Building Human Capacities
With limited qualitative and quantitative human resources in the managerial and technical field in
general, and the ICT field in particular, the government aims to put in place a training program to
build the capacity of state personnel in ICT. Related projects include: Training staff and multimedia
resource center attendants on the use of ICT and creation of a training center for state personnel.
ANTIC has organised annual workshops since 2009 to reinforce ICT-related skills for government
officials.
Geographic scope cost and time frame: National, 2 440 000 000 francs CFA from 2010 to
beyond 2012.
5.3.3 Improving the Legal, Regulatory and Institutional Framework
The development and implementation of a legal, regulatory and institutional framework is likely to
facilitate the development of an economic sector through Information and Communication
Technologies, to create a competitive environment for the development and the provision of
electronic communications services, stimulate innovation, create a framework for reducing costs
and diversify the choices of consumers.
The Government recognizes the need to periodically revisit the legal system, regulatory and
institutional framework to take account of rapid technological change.
To create a conducive environment for development and delivery of electronic services related to e-
government and e-commerce, the following laws were enacted in December 2010:
Law No. 2010/012 of 21 December 2010 related to cyber security and cyber crime
Law No. 2010/013 of 21 December 2010 governing electronic communications
Law No. 2010/021 of 21 December 2010 governing electronic commerce
These laws reinforce Law No. 98/014 of 14 July 1998 governing telecommunications in Cameroon.
The overall objective is to create a normative and institutional environment to facilitate and promote
the integration of Cameroon in the global information and knowledge society.
Geographic scope, cost and time frame: National, 340 million CFA, 2010 to 2012.
5.3.4 Strengthening the rule of Law and Sovereignty
Information and Communication Technologies will be used as a powerful tool in safeguarding the
sovereignty and territorial surveillance to improve population management, the fight against
antisocial behavior and behavior that may jeopardize the rule of law. The judiciary will be
computerised while the process of computerising identification cards in Cameroon continues.
Projects for territorial security include: Data center deployment, putting in place of a Public Key
Infrastructure and a certification authority.
Geographic scope, cost and time frame: National, 22 336 259 000 francs CFA, 2010 - 2013
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5.3.5 ICT Infrastructure Development
The national ICT infrastructure is almost obsolete. However, access to ICT services in general and
the Internet in particular is based on the deployment of a reliable telecommunications infrastructure.
The Government is committed to develop and densify the telecommunications network and Internet
development through the implementation of the electronic communications infrastructure
development program. The following projects to develop communications infrastructure were
identified: National backbone infrastructure (more than 6,000 km of Optical Fibre cable has been
laid over the national territory with an additional 50km of Fibre Optic forming a mesh in the
economic capital, Douala and the capital, Yaounde), extension of government intranet, currently
establishing an Internet Exchange Point (IXP), Wimax telecommunications infrastructure network
and equipped multimedia centers.
The Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) Centre is operational since October 2012 hosting two authorities
namely: Cameroon’s Root Certification Authority and Government Certification Authority. ANTIC has
intensified the process of securing the Cameroon’s cyberspace with PKI by planning key
government applications to be secured in 2015. Key national application secured with this system
include: e-procurement (management of public contracts), e-Guce (management of the payment of
importation/exportation dues at the sea port) and national social insurance system.
Geographic scope; cost and time frame: National, 98 018 320 000 francs CFA, 2009 - 2012.
5.3.6 Development of Social Sectors through the use of ICT
General observation shows that the use of ICT is low in both public and private sectors and within
the general population. In this era of information society, ICT is an indispensable tool for human
development.
To this end, the Government undertakes to ensure ownership of ICT in the sectors of health,
education, agriculture or rural development.
Within the framework of the Pan-African online services project with the government of India, three
projects at pilot stages have been realized. They include:
eHealth: The University Teaching Hospital (CHU) in Yaoundé is linked to the hub in Congo
Brazzaville for tele-medicine activities
Tele-education: The University of Yaoundé I (National Advanced School of Engineering) has been
equipped for online courses in the Central African sub-region.
Tele-diplomacy: The Ministry of External relation has been equipped with communication devices
for high-level communication between Heads of States.
Geographic scope, cost and time frame at national level: 4 570 million CFA, 2010 - 2013.
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5.3.7 Modernising the Public Service
A major focus of Government policy is to modernize the management of the state with an efficient
public administration, decentralization of government, and public participation in decision-making.
The capabilities of Information and Communication Technologies to enhance the modernization of
public services will ensure the improvement of government’s relations with citizens, public and
private companies or increase the effectiveness of their internal functioning.
The Government is committed to develop online services (extension of the pan-African online
service project with the Indian government, web site development, electronic management of
documents and dematerialized procedures, setting up of treasury ATM payments, governmental
and national ICT web portals), modernize working tools (extending the government intranet to
regions, creating multimedia centers, dematerialization of public contract procedures, electronic
archiving of public contract files, computerizing toll gates), scanning the national heritage and
develop planning tools for strategic management (integrated fiscal management and financial
management & accounting system, accountability of government expenditure, research on socio-
economic impact of ICT, developing a strategy and program for e-governance, elaboration of the
‘.CM’ domain name policy, creating a multidimensional statistical database, spatial data
infrastructure, computerizing the electoral system, feasibility studies to develop local content e.g.
digitizing of national cultural, scientific and touristic heritage). ICT master plans are in the process of
elaboration in public administrative units, ministries websites are being developed most of which are
still in the emerging (limited web presence) stage and a government intranet will be developed.
In order to have a concrete programme in the modernization of the public sector, ANTIC in
partnership with UNU-IIST has elaborated the draft of the electronic governance strategy in
Cameroon, the document development is based on consideration of the following perspectives:
Information and Service Delivery;
Internal Government Operations;
Enablers;
Impact on Growth and Development
The Government of Cameroon is currently developing the Implementation of the Strategy and the
eGovernment Master Plan. With technical and financial support from the Korean government, the
eGovernment Master Plan Development project has been extended to 2017 in order to improve on
the quality of the document and a suitable environment to roll-out the plan.
Geographic scope, cost and time frame: National, 30 076 640 000 CFA, 2009 - 2033
5.3.8 Development of an ICT Industrial Sector
Vision 2035 plans to make Cameroon an emerging country. To achieve this, its dominant role as a
consumer of technology needs to be changed to that of a producer. In this context, the Government
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is committed to supporting indigenous development of service industries and ICT products through
programs to promote ICT companies and support Research and Development in the area.
Partnerships will be developed between the research world and the professional world in
Cameroon. Major projects include: organizing a national forum on Internet and ICT governance,
feasibility studies to put in place an ICT technopole in Cameroon, creation of a platform for R&D.
Geographic scope, cost and time frame: National, 1 525 000 000 CFA, 2010 – 2013
eServices that are operational:
SIGIPES (online management of government employees);
SYSTAC (Driving Licences Management) managed by Ministry of Transport
SYDONIA (Import & Export Management) managed by the Custom Department, MINFI;
Electoral System (biometric identification);
Biometric passports
eHealth (CHU, Yaoundé), eLearning (Univ. Yaoundé I) and eDiplomacy (MINREX) sponsored
by the Indian government.
Some ongoing initiatives
Primo (e-Procurement) system, which is used for the management of government contracts;
Tax management, state budget management and public contracts payment management
systems;
Judiciary Management System, which will be used to manage court cases and related issues
nationwide;
National Civil Status Registry System. A national agency was created in 2015 through a
presidential decree with the mandate of developing and managing the National Civil Status
Registry System.
5.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
5.4.1 National Priorities
Based on Cameroon’s development program (growth and employment) for the period 2010 to 2020,
most of the research is focused on the following areas:
(i) Infrastructure development: energy, building construction and public works, transport, water
and sanitation, land management
(ii) Modernisation of the production mechanism: rural sector, mining, social economy and
handicraft, industry and services, human development, health, education and training, gender,
social protection, national solidarity
(iii) Regional integration and diversification of trade: regional integration
(iv) Financing the economy: fiscal policies, banking system, micro finance.
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ICT research is also incorporated to develop electronic services including e-health, e-agriculture, e-
banking, e-commerce, e-learning, electronic surveyance on transport highways.
National ICT Research Priorities include:
eInfrastructure – Adaptation of eInfrastructure to the country’s environment so as to be cost
effective, easy to maintain and sustain. Institutions involved include: University of Yaounde I,
University of Douala, University of Ngaoundere and University of Maroua.
Cyber Security – Put necessary tools in place to secure Cameroon’s cyber space. Institutions
involved include: University of Yaounde I, University of Douala, University of Ngaoundere and
University of Maroua.
Connected Enterprises – Support SMEs through reduced costs in investment, access to new
skills and diversify expertise. Institutions involved include: University of Ngaoundere
Cloud Computing – Support SMEs through reduced costs in technological investment, increase
technology adoption and usage, and improve ICT security. Institutions involved include:
University of Ngaoundere and University of Maroua
Technology Enhanced Learning. Institutions involved include: University of Yaounde I,
University of Douala, University of Buea and University of Dschang
Sustainable Agriculture: Using ICT solutions to address the following issues: soil management,
crop planting management, finished product marketing etc. Institutions involved include:
University of Yaounde I, University of Dschang, University of Ngaoundere
5.4.2 National Research Capacity
The table below provides an overview of universities with ICT/Engineering Courses:
Institution Location Total Students
ICT/Engineering Department(s)
ICT/Engineering Teaching Staff
Undergraduate Students
Post-Graduate (Masters, PhD)
University of Yaounde I
(Faculty of Sciences)
Yaounde 01 23 1500 320
University of Yaounde I (ENSP)
Yaounde
68,000
02 12 150 13
University of Douala (Faculty of Sciences)
Douala 01 18 480 80
University of Douala (Faculty of Industrial Engineering)
Douala 04 11 350 0
University of Douala (Institute of Technology)
Douala
44,000
04 12 280 0
University of Dschang (Faculty of Science)
Dschang 25,000 01 08 1,000 45
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University of Dschang (Institution of Technology)
Fotso Victor de Bandjoun
02 12 180 0
University of Ngaoundere (Faculty of Science)
Ngaoundere 01 15 400 11
University of Ngaoundere (Institute of Technology)
Ngaoundere
17,500
02 9 300 0
University of Buea (Faculty of Science)
Buea 01 6 300 6
University of Buea (Faculty of Engineering)
Buea 02 400 0
University of Buea (College of Technology)
Buea
16,500
02
15
400 0
University of Maroua
Maroua 1739 01 15 432 19
Catholic University for Central Africa
Yaounde 2,000 01 5 90 30
The following universities and research centres in
Cameroon are undertaking ICT-related initiatives:
University of Yaounde I34
Depts include: Faculty of Sciences, Department
of Computer Science; National Advanced
School of Engineering
Research areas include: Software Engineering;
Network Engineering; Electronic and Electrical
Engineering
University of Douala35
Depts include: Faculty of Sciences, Department
of Computer Science and Mathematics; Faculty
of Industrial Engineering, Department of Computer Engineering; Institute of Technology
University of Dschang36
Departments include: Faculty of Sciences, Department of Mathematics and Computer
Science; Telecom Engineering; Electrical Engineering; Institute of Technology
34 http://www.uy1.uninet.cm/ 35 http://www.univ-douala.com/ 36 http://www.univ-dschang.org/1.8/index.php
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Research areas include: Artificial Intelligence; Computer Engineering; Modelling Complex
Networks; Software Engineering; GIS; ICT for Education; Modelling of Signal Analysis
University of Buea37
Departments include: Faculty of Sciences, Department of Computer Science; Faculty of
Engineering, Department of Computer Engineering; Faculty of Engineering, Department of
Electrical Engineering; College of Technology
Research areas include: Data mining; Information retrieval; Change Management;
Information System development
University of Maroua
Departments include: Faculty of Sciences, Department of Computer Science; Higher
Institute of Sahel
Research areas include: Outsourcing Telecommunication; Embedded systems; Software
Engineering; Data mining; Networking
University of Bamenda
Departments include: Faculty of Sciences, Department of Computer Science; Faculty of
Engineering, Department of Computer Engineering
University of Ngaoundere38
Departments include: Faculty of Sciences, Department of Computer Science; Institute of
Technology
Research areas include: Systems and Software for Distributed Environments
Catholic University of Central Africa
Departments include: Department of Information System;
Protestant University of Central Africa
Departments include: Faculty of Sciences, Department of Computer Science
Inter-University Research Centre for Information and Communication Technologies,
Yaounde
To promote the sharing of online resources between Cameroonian universities to support
scientific research activities (created by Ministry of Higher Education)
Based on a consultation process, each University has identified their areas of research expertise
and track record and has been encouraged to develop an organisational profile. Existing
relationships with European research institutions have also been identified. A summary of these
findings are provided below:
37 http://ubuea.net/ 38 http://www.univ-ndere.cm/
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Department of Computer Engineering, National Advanced School of Engineering, University of Yaounde I
Research Expertise
Simulation of flows in porous media; E-learning concepts and tools; Software testing
concepts and tools; Network protocols; Health statistics; Remote system administration
based on GSM protocol; Epidemiology; Bio-Informatics; Image Analysis Synthesis;
Spatial Information System Techniques; Cryptography and Security
Existing relationship in place with INRIA, France; IRISA (Rennes-France) & GDAC (Canada)
Laboratoire d'Imagerie Spatiale et d'Informatique (LISI) & Department of Mathematics and Informatics, Université de Douala
Research Expertise
Distance learning environments (Optimal design of interfaces, traffic characterization and
modelling, coding and compression of data for optimal transmission, synchronization and
authentication of learners)
Traffic engineering for integrated services networks (Development of new traffic models
that capture the self-similar property of network traffic; performance impact of self-
similarity; QoS characterization and provisioning in the presence of self-similar traffic;
Application to network intrusion detection (anomaly detection))
Geographic Information Systems for environmental management (Remote sensing,
processing of remote sensing images)
Mathematical modelling for epidemiology
Existing relationships in place with Université Paris-Est (Marne-La-Vallée), France in relation
to Geographic Information Systems for environmental management & University of Siegen
and the University of Technology of Ilmenau, Germany in relation to Traffic engineering for
integrated services networks.
Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Université de Dschang
Data mining, Distributed systems and services, Scientific calculations, Multi-agent systems,
sensors; Parallel Processing; Digital signal processing; Technology-enhanced Learning
Existing relationships in place with AUF: Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie;
Université de Paris 13; Cisco Systems
Department of Computer Science, University of Buea
System Modelling: Organisational Change Management; Agent Modelling and the Dynamics
and Transmission of Malaria, Semantic issues in systems); Programming Language
Technology (Formal Methods, Transformation Systems, Tools and Semantics);
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5.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders the following thematic areas are considered to be
important in the context of the ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Topics Partners include
eHealth Disease prevention, Distance access to medical care, Efficient Epidemic Alerts, Disease Treatment and Management
University of Buea (Dept of Computer Science); University of Ngaoundere (Institute of Technology); University of Yaounde I (Dept of Computer Science), University of Dschang; University of Maroua; University of Doula
eAgriculture Efficient Climate and Weather Information Management; Crop Management; Efficient Soil Exploitation
University of Maroua (Dept of Computer Science); University of Ngaoundere (Dept of Computer Science & Maths); University of Yaounde I (Dept of Computer Science), University of Dschang; Institute for Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD) Yaounde
Environment Climate Change Management; Flood and Drought Management; Water & Pollution Management; Forestry & Wildlife Management
University of Maroua (Dept of Computer Science); University of Ngaoundere (Dept of Computer Science & Maths); University of Dschang (Institute of Technology); University of Yaounde I (Dept of Computer Science)
Technology-enhanced Learning
Distance Learning & Student Evaluation; Virtual Classroom; Social Network of Institutions, Scholars & Professions
University of Maroua (Dept of Computer Science); University of Ngaoundere (Dept of Computer Science & Maths); University of Dschang (Institute of Technology); University of Yaounde I (Dept of Computer Science)
5.4.4 Mapping to H2020 Themes
The initial mapping to Horizon 2020 Research areas is summarised below:
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Components and Systems University of Dschang (Math/CS): Smart Embedded Components and Systems, Large Area Integration and Complex System Engineering
University of Maroua (Computer/Telecom): Smart Embedded Components and Systems, and System of Systems;
University of Ngaoundere (Math/CS): Complex Systems, Communicating Systems.
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Advanced Computing University of Dschang (Math/CS): Interconnect and Data Localisation Technologies, Cloud Computing, Parallel Computing and Simulation Software
University of Ngaoundere (Math/CS): Processor and System Architecture, Cloud Computing and Parallel Computing.
Future Internet University of Dschang (Math/CS): Networks, Digital signal processing & distributed systems, Software and Services, Wireless Communication, Multimedia and Connected Enterprise, Data Mining, Artificial Intelligence, Software Modelling and Numerical methods
University of Ngaoundere (Math/CS): Networks, Software and Services, Wireless Communication, Mesh Networks for Internet coverage, Virtualisation, High performance computing and enterprise services, Ambient devices
University of Maroua (CS/Telecommunication): Model Based Software Engineering, Cloud Computing
University of Douala (Math/CS): Numerical methods, Software Modelling; Faculty of Industrial Engineering (Computer Engineering); Software Modelling
University of Beau (CS): Software Modelling
Content Technologies & Information Management
University of Dschang (Math/CS): Technologies for Language, Learning, Machine Learning, Advanced Data mining
University of Maroua (Computer/Telecom): Advanced Data mining
University of Ngaoundere (Math/CS): Technology-enhanced Learning
University of Buea (CS): Technology-enhanced Learning, Digital Content
University of Douala (Math/CS): Technology-enhanced learning
University of Yaounde I (CS): Technology-enhanced Learning
Robotics University of Maroua (Computer/Telecom): Service Robotics
University of Ngaoundere (Math/CS): Service Robotics, Smart Spaces and Sentient Machines
Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health University of Dschang (Math/CS): Wellbeing and Disease, Treating and Managing Disease
University of Maroua (Computer/Telecom): Wellbeing and Disease;
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University of Ngaoundere (Math/CS): Preventing Disease; Methods and Data
University of Doula (Math/CS): Mathematical modelling for epidemiology
University of Yaounde I (Faculty of Biomedical Science)
University of Buea (Faculty of Health Science)
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture
University of Maroua (Computer/Telecom): Sustainable Agriculture and Forestry; Sustainable and Competitive Agri-food Sector, Sustainable and Competitive Bio-based Industries and Supporting Development of Bio-Economy
University of Ngaoundere (Math/CS): Sustainable Agriculture and Forestry.
University of Dschang (Faculty of Agronomy)
Institute for Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD) Yaounde
Energy University of Dschang (Math/CS): Reducing energy consumption and carbon footprints by smart and sustainable use, Low-Cost, Alternative Fuels and Mobile Energy Sources, Robust Decision Making and Public Engagement.
University of Maroua (Computer/Telecom): Reducing energy consumption and carbon footprints by smart and sustainable use, Low-Cost.
University of Yaounde I (Faculty of Science)
Transport University of Maroua (Computer/Telecom): Resource Efficient Transport that respects the environment; Socio-Economic Research
Climate Action, Resource Efficiency and Raw Materials
University of Ngaoundere (Math/CS): Protection of Environment, Sustainable Management of Natural Resources, Observation and Information Systems
University of Yaounde I (Faculty of Science)
Inclusive, Innovative and Reflective Societies
University of Maroua (Computer/Telecom): cultural heritage
University of Yaounde I (ENSP)
Secure Societies University of Maroua (Computer/Telecom): Cryptography, Cyber Security; Risk and Management; Enhance Standardisation and Interoperability of Systems, Including for Emergency Purposes.
University of Ngaoundere (Math/CS): Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust
University of Yaounde I (ENSP)
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Level of Research Maturity
Cameroon has a good research base and experience in collaborative research with involvement
from in 23 projects and research funding of €3.66 million in FP7. There is a strong aspiration at
government level to further strengthening research capacity within the country, and facilitate the
continued development of post-graduate programmes. As the number of publication increase the
international awareness of specific organisation is also more visable. For example University of
Yaoundé I is ranked top 30 in Africa with 876.33 as note for publications and 49.2 as citation score
for the period 2009 to 2013 in the December 2015 issue of the Times Higher Education39
39 http://timeshighereducation.co.uk
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6. EGYPT
6.1 Introduction
Egypt is situated in Northern Africa, bordering the
Mediterranean Sea and sharing boundaries with Libya and
the Gaza Strip. It has a surface area of 1,001,450 square
km, made up of twenty-seven administrative divisions. The
population is estimated at 88.49 million inhabitants (July
2015 CIA World FactBook) with literacy rate of 73.8%40.
62.9% of the total population is between 15 and 64 years
of age. Cairo has a population of 18.77 million and
Alexandria 4.778 million (2015). The official languages are
Arabic, English and French.
The Government of Egypt recognizes the ICT sector as a
critical component of the national economy, not only due to
its substantial contribution to employment, exports and diversification of the economy, but for its
dynamic and innovative potential, and its broader role in providing enabling technologies, products
and services that underpin the development of Egypt as a knowledge-based economy in the global
market. The diagram below outlines the distribution of ICT companies by activity.
In relation to Communications, according to MCIT and NTRA published statistics, there were 6.22
million fixed line subscribers and 93.24 million mobile subscribers (107.01% penetration) as at 30
September 2015. There were 25.04 million mobile Internet subscriptions, 4 million USB modem
subscribers and 3.65 ADSL subscribers as at 30 September 2015.
In terms of ICT Infrastructure, FLAG, SMW4 and SMW3 are the three marine cables connecting
Egypt to the rest of the world. The existing backbone is a result of the PPP between the Egyptian
40 CIA World Factbook
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Government and the private sector. Telecom Egypt is the largest provider of fixed line services. It
also provides retail telecommunications services (voice, Internet and data) and is the sole provider
of wholesale telecommunications services. It provides broadband capacity leasing to ISPs and
national and international interconnection services. Egypt has three mobile providers.
CAIX41, the National IXP, was established in 2002, funded by the Government of Egypt through
MCIT and managed by National Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (NTRA). CAIX’s mission
is to connect all Class A and B ISPs in Egypt to exchange the local traffic inside Egypt and safe
their international bandwidth. All Class A ISPs are members in CAIX. There are four ISPs
(TEDATA, Vodafone, Linkdotnet, Etisalat) connected via giga interface and three ISPs (Noor,
MenaNet, YALLA) via Fast Ethernet.
The Government established a root certificate authority (PKI Trust center) at the Information
Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA) and Governmental Certificate Authority at the
Ministry of Finance. 3 private sector owned CAs were licensed, of which two are operational. Plans
are ongoing to integrate the PKI digital certificates within the (contactless smart) national ID card.
Several PKI based pilot projects and services have been launched in the governmental sector,
banks and stock market.
There are 29 public universities, 33 private universities and more than 400 private
institutions of higher education. Of these 35 have Departments focused on
ICT/Engineering.
6.2 ICT Background
There is a strong emphasis on applied ICT research and development as Egypt diversifies from
natural resources to a focus on creativity and innovation. The Ministry of Communications &
Information Technology (MCIT) launched an R&D initiative with a set of strategic objectives to
emphasise the importance of, and promote, R&D in the ICT industry and the applications of ICT
R&D in other sectors. This initiative launched Research and Development Centres of Excellence to
support collaboration between academic and industrial institutions at a national and international
level. The Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre42 (TIEC) aims to support innovation
and entrepreneurship in ICT and thus drive the economy.
In the formulation of Egypt’s ICT Policy (2013 – 2017), the primary consideration were the political
and economic changes in Egypt since the 25th January 2011 revolution, the development of the
communications sector both regionally and internationally, supporting the country’s transition to
democracy and Egypt’s national development priorities. The new strategy is focused on achieving
sustainable socio-economic development through Digital Identify using ICT solutions, ICT Industry
Development, creating job opportunities and attracting Foreign Direct Investment. It focuses on
integrating ICTs across all sectors to serve national development priorities, including preserving
41 www.caix.net.eg 42 http://www.tiec.gov.eg/en-us/Pages/default.aspx
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natural resources and the environment. Key ICT sectors to be supported include Digital Identity,
Egypt Digital Hub, Basic Infrastructure (Broadband, Cloud Computing, Submarine Cables), Cyber
Security & eSignature, Information Infrastructure & Digital Content, Electronics Design &
Manufacturing, Legislative and Policies Framework.
The National ICT Policy (2013 – 2017) is an important part of the National Development Plan
building on Egypt’s unique geographical location and optimum utilisation of Submarine Cables to
become a Global Internet Hub. The eGovernment Strategy has been in place with MCIT’s policies
since 2003 and its implementation follows three guiding policies: Citizen Centric Service Delivery;
Community Participation and Efficient Allocation of Government Resources. The policies are sub-
divided by the primary sector that will implement them:
Government - focused on Cloud Computing, Digital Identity Management, Open Source
Software, Access to information, Green ICT and Arabic Digital Content
CIvil Society - focused on Mobile Phone Applications, Arabic Digital Content, Empowering
people with disabilities
Private sector - focused on eCommerce
In February 2012, the five-year ICDL-Egypt Scholarship Program concluded, having provided ICDL
certification to 836,801 Egyptians, 58% of whom were female. The MCIT and the ECDL Foundation
launched a new phase of the ICDL-Egypt Scholarship Program, running from 2012 to 2013, with a
further 5,530 candidates certified in November 2013.
In September 2011, MCIT launched the IT Houses initiative to offer training courses, eGovernment
service and SMS services. As at August 2014, there were 126 IT Houses established across the
country. There were 2,163 IT Clubs of which 1,955 are connected to the Internet.
MCIT supports the development of a knowledge and digital economy by providing affordable access
to knowledge and development of a competitive, innovative national ICT industry. Egypt's ICT 2020
Strategy is currently being finalised and aims to support the development of the communications
sector both regionally and internationally.
6.3 Current ICT Initiatives and projects
6.3.1 ICT for Learning
MCIT has invested in projects and programs to support sustainable human development, which
incorporate the following components:
Education Development via Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
Illiteracy Eradication Initiative
E-Learning Competence Center (ELCC)
ICT for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
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6.3.2 ICT for Health
The Government of Egypt and its Ministry of Health have established several e-Health programs to
bring better diagnostic and health services to a wider segment of the Egyptian society. MCIT has
facilitated the integration of ICT in health services and the provision of medical education to remote
or underserved areas of Egypt. The e-health initiative is inspired by pursuing equal opportunities for
health services anywhere in Egypt, and expanding medical insurance to all citizens.
The principle objectives of the e-Health initiative are as follows:
Extend better medical diagnostic services to rural areas
Provide a training facility for the medical community
Acquire international consultations for special cases
Reduce the cost of health care through better patient management
Optimize utilization of expertise and resources
Provide an advanced medical services in emergencies
Create electronic databases for medical records
The main components/ projects of this initiative are:
Emergency Medical Call Center and Ambulance Service
National Network for Citizen Health Treatment
Information System Units in Governmental Hospitals
National Healthcare Capacity Building Project
Pilot Project for Hospital Automation
Women’s Mobile Health Unit Project
National Cancer Registry Program
The Suzanne Mubarak Center for Women’s Health in Alexandria
IT Health Master Plan
National PACS Project
Integrated National Health Record System
6.3.3 ICT for Government
MCIT was instrumental in introducing eGovernment in Egypt from 2003 and extending ICT into
public services. MCIT supports other Ministries in facilitating e-Government programs and services
as part of the Egyptian Information Society Initiative (EISI). One of the core objectives of the
initiative is to modernize the way citizens interact with their government by introducing ICTs to the
internal operations of government departments and to their interface with the public.
The main components/ projects of this initiative are:
National Land Registration System
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Automation of Notarization Offices
Prohibited from Transaction System Network
Automation of Chambers of Commerce Project
Egyptian Geography Network (EGN)
Sheikh Zayed Geographic Information Systems Unit
e-Commerce Map for Alexandria Chamber of Commerce
General Organization for International Exhibitions and Fairs (GOIEF)
Infrastructure Development of the City of Luxor
National Organization for Potable Water and Sanitary Drainage
Upgrade of the Central Agency for Organization and Administration (CAOA)
National Council for Childhood and Motherhood
e-Government Applications
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems
Ministry of Finance
Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics (CAPMAS)
MFTI Economic Databases and Decision Support Services
6.3.4 E-Content
The digital content industry encompasses the creation, design, management and distribution of
digital products and services and the technologies that underpin these activities. Egypt places a
high priority on developing and distributing Arabic e-Content that forms the basis of intellectual and
cultural inspiration for future generations. Accordingly, MCIT has supported the establishment of an
e-content industry in Egypt through its Arabic e-content initiative. This initiative aims to enhance the
competitiveness of the Egyptian e-content industry by supporting the production, use and
distribution of Arabic digital content on global networks.
The main components/ projects of this initiative are:
Online Journalism
CULTNAT
National Archives of Egypt
Fekr Rama Portal
Luxor Portal
Egynews Portal
Science and Technology Portal
Community Development Portals
Telecentre Network
The Egyptian Sign Language Dictionary CD
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6.3.5 Access for All
MCIT seeks to guarantee universal, easy, affordable and rapid access for all Egyptian citizens to
ICT, and stimulating awareness of the potential uses and benefits of ICT. In this respect, MCIT has
implemented a number of programs with the chief aim of providing benefits to users, promoting
computer literacy, and encouraging increased use of ICT by the public.
The main components/ projects of this initiative are:
IT Clubs - In April 2013 there were 2,163 IT Clubs, with 1,955 connected to the Internet.
Mobile Internet Unit
Egyptian Olympiad in Informatics
Egypt PC 2010 – Nation Online
6.3.6 Green ICT
Greening ICT, or applying user-friendly policies, has become a dire need. Environment protection is
an important issue for human safety, for sustaining social and economic development, and for
preserving natural gifts for next generations. ICT tools constitute very important potential for
protecting the environment, creating solutions for decreasing toxic emissions by other sectors.
6.3.7 Legislative Services
MCIT collaborates with Ministry of Justice to enhance the Government’s performance, facilitate work
in ministries and affiliates, promote and increase the efficiency of the various legislative services
provided. This is aligned with developing IT government infrastructure and digital services, which
aim to move from paper based systems to e-transactions, thus securing documents, improving work
conditions for employees and enhancing efficiency. The initiative focuses on developing how
citizens interact with Government bodies by applying ICT techniques in internal processes.
6.3.8 Internet Safety
MCIT established a National Committee for Child Online Safety to synchronize and coordinate
efforts in relation to Internet security.
The main components/ projects of this initiative are:
National Committee for Child Online Safety
Legislative Framework
Technology Solutions
Law Enforcement
Awareness Raising
Education
Availing Arabic Content
Regional and International Cooperation.
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6.3.9 ICT for Community Integration
MCIT’s efforts to increase community integration using ICTs are aimed at: empowering rural and
marginalized communities through development projects and raising awareness of benefits of ICTs;
promoting development in rural and marginalized areas through application of technology solutions
to establish an integrated sustainable development model; empowering women through illiteracy
eradication programs; and improving services in education, healthcare and supporting SMEs.
The main components/ projects of this initiative are:
ICT for Illiteracy Eradication
Kenana Online Community Development Portal.
6.3.10 ICTs for People with Disabilities
In March 2012, MCIT launched the ICTs for People with Disabilities initiative, which aims to improve
the quality of life for people with disabilities by using ICTs to facilitate access to information and
knowledge, boost interaction with the community and increase opportunities for employment. The
initiative involves the participation of people with disabilities and organizations representing their
interests, and focuses on integrating people with disabilities in the Egyptian society and empowering
them through ICTs. It aims to remove barriers and facilitate opportunities for people with disabilities
– using ICTs to develop their abilities and potential – and enabling them to enjoy their rights, fulfil
their responsibilities, and participate fully in developing their communities and society.
In 2012, progress was made on a number of tracks, as follows:
Launch of an Accessible Web Portal
Development of Inclusive and Special Needs Schools
Development of Centers for Disability Services at Egyptian Universities
Development of a Unified Egyptian Sign Language Dictionary
ICDL4PwDs Grant
Employability Enhancement Program
Tamkeen Competition
Support of the National Council on Disability Affairs
e-Learning for Schoolchildren with Hearing and Sight Impairments.
MCIT adopted specific polices to empower people with disability through ICT, to increase acces and
to involve people with disabiltiy in determining government policies and strategies.
6.3.11 Cross cutting areas
MCIT has adopted policies to support a conducive environment, standards and applications for
Arabic Digital content development
Cloud computing - to promote use of cloud computing technologies and relevant applications
Digital Identify Management - to promote privacy and personal security in cyberspace
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eCommerce - to promote uptake and confidence
Mobile applications - increase access to applications and provide universal access to services
Open source software - to increase the use of open source software by government and in
development applications
6.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
6.4.1 National Priorities
National ICT Research Priorities include Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship; Biomedical
Informatics Research; Digital Identity; Basic Infrastructure (Broadband, Cloud Computing,
Submarine Cables); Cyber Security & eSignature; Information Infrastructure & Digital Content;
Electronics Design & Manufacturing.
Technology Innovation & Entrepreneurship – Focus on encouraging creativity and Innovation
with full government support for all stakeholders. Institutions involved include: Technology
Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (TIEC), Private sector (Cairo Hackspace, The District,
icecairo Innovation Spaces).
Health – Biomedical Informatics research is one of the main research areas in many Egyptian
universities including: Ministry of Health, Information Technology Institute (ITI), Software
Engineering Competence Centre (SECC) and Universities (Cairo University, Nile University,
Beni Suef University, American University of Cairo, British University in Cairo, Zewel University).
Academic initiatives to improve living conditions of Egyptian society - Citizen centric service
delivery, Community participation, efficient allocation of government resources. Institutions
involved include: MCIT, Software Engineering Competence Centre (SECC) Cairo University,
Academy of Scientific Research and Technology
6.4.2 National Research Capacity
The table below provides an overview of some of the universities with ICT/Engineering Courses:
Institution Location Total Students
ICT/Engineering Department(s)
ICT/Engineering Teaching Staff
Undergraduate Students
Post-Graduate (Masters, PhD)
Cairo University Giza 271,000 Faculty of Computers and Information – Dept of Information Technology, Dept of Computer Science Faculty of Engineering – Dept of Electrical and Communication
Prof: 8
Lecturers: 13
Technical Support Staff: 2
250,000 153 Masters awarded up to 2010 9,000 Masters and 1,200 PhD candidates 40 PostGraduate Students in ICT/Engineering
Helwan University Cairo 78,309 Faculty of Computers and Information Systems
Prof: 3
Lecturers: 6
Technical Support Staff: 6
4,000
169 ICT / Engineering
2,500
30 ICT/Engineering PostGraduate
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per college students
Nile University Giza School of Communications & Information Technology, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
12 Full time, 8 part-time, 10 visitors
96 575 Masters
27 Applied PhD Candidates
Zewail City of Science and Technology
Giza 450 Learning Technologies Dept
Prof: 6
Lecturers: 21
Technical Support Staff: 10
430 14 Masters
6 Applied PhD Candidates
American University of Cairo
Cairo 6,720 Dept of Computer Science and Engineering
Prof: 13
Lecturers: 21
Technical Support Staff: 10
207 ICT/Engineering
83 PostGraduate ICT/Engineering
Heliopolis University Cairo 140 Faculty of Engineering
Prof: 3
Lecturers: 6
Technical Support Staff: 3
30 ICT/Engineering
National Telecommunication Institute
Cairo Computer Dept., Networks Dept.,Transmission Dept., Switching Dept. and Electronics Dept.
19 15 PostGraduate Students
Ain Shams University Cairo Computer Science Dept.
211 1,531 9
Alexandria University Alexandria Faculty of Engineering – Computer and Systems Engineering Dept
79 306
Mansoura University Dakahlia Computers and Information Faculty
42
Monofya University Monofya Faculty of Engineering – Electronics Dept.
Assiut University Assuit Faculty of Computers and Information
39 858 394
Beni Suef University Beni Suef Faculty of computers and information (teaching and research)
Prof: 3
Lecturers: 10
Technical Support Staff: 17
405 ICT/Engineering
1051 Masters and 604 PhD students
Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport
Cairo College of Computing and Information Technology
Prof: 10
Lecturers: 5
Technical Support Staff: 3
300 ICT/Engineering
300 Masters and 700 PhD students
Based on an initial consultation, the following Universities and research centres in Egypt
undertaking ICT-related initiatives have identified their areas of research expertise and track record
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and have been encouraged to develop an organisational profile. Summary findings are provided
below:
Cairo University43
Depts include: Faculty of Computers and Information – Dept of Information Technology and
Dept of Computer Science; Faculty of Engineering – Dept of Electrical and Communication
Research Groups include: Mobile Computing, Semantic Computing, Optical Networking,
Data Mining, Big Data, Optimization and Operation Research, High-Performance Computing
Semantic Computing and Web. Skills include: Implementation and deployment of semantic
web technologies including RDF, RDFs, SPARQL and Zamenta. Industrial pilot within
RECOCAPE FP7 project
Research areas include: Wireless Communication & Networks, Electronic Design,
Embedded Systems (Electronics and Communications Dept); Future Internet, Information
Management including Big Data, Content Management and Content Technologies (Faculty
of Computer Information); Bioinformatics, Persuasive Computing, Networks (Systems and
Biomedical Dept)
Helwan University44
Departments include: Faculty of Computers and Information Systems
Research Groups include: Human Computer Interaction, Computational Linguistics, Cloud
Computing, Data Mining, High Performance Computing, Soft Computing, Medical and Bio-
Informatics, Business Intelligence, Image Processing, Medical Engineering, Security, Data
Management, Conceptual Mapping, Knowledge Engineering, Computer Arabization and
Islamic applications, Information Security, Multi-level Optimisation, Speech Processing and
Machine Learning, Intelligent Decision Support Systems, Mobile Computing
Nile University45
Departments include: School of Communications & Information Technology, School of
Engineering and Applied Sciences, Wireless Centre
Research Groups include: Informatics, Image processing, Bioinformatics, Wireless
technologies, Information security, Nano-electronics, Software engineering, Mechatronics
Research areas include: Wireless Communications, Wireless Networks, Applications for
Health, Social Networks
Zewail City of Science and Technology 46
Departments include: E-Learning department
43 http://cu.edu.eg/Home 44 http://www.helwan.edu.eg/english/ 45 http://www.nileu.edu.eg/ 46 http://www.zewailcity.edu.eg/
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Research Groups include: Technologies for Learning; Big Data Technologies' Advanced
Data Mining, Machine Learning, Statistical Analysis and Visual Computing
Research areas include also: Wireless Communications and Smart Integrated Systems
American University of Cairo47
Departments include: Department of Computer Science and Engineering; Department of
Electronics Engineering; Department of Mathematics and Actuarial Science; Department of
Mechanical Engineering; Department of Petroleum and Energy Engineering; Yousef Jameel
Science and Technology Research Center
Research areas include: Text Mining, Image Processing, Mobile Computing; Computer
interaction, EE multicore systems, Wireless sensor networks, pervasive and ubiquitous
systems; Embedded multicore systems, VLSI implementation aspects of CPU micro
architecture; Wireless sensor networks platforms and applications computer architecture /
micro architecture; Arabic handwritten & Arabic voice recognition; Renewable Energy;
Energy Efficiency; Entrepreneurship
British University in Egypt (BUE)48
Departments include: Faculty of Informatics and Computer Science (ICS)
Research areas include: Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, Mobile-based Health
Applications (self-service)
Heliopolis University49
Departments include: Faculty of Engineering - Department of Mechatronics, Department of
Energy and Department of Water
Research Groups include: Robotics, Community Services, Waste treatment and waste
management
Heliopolis University has signed MOUs with: Universitat Hohenheim (Germany), Weingarten
University of Education, University of DUNDEE (UK), University of Graz (Austria), Graz
University of Technology (TUG) (Austria), University of Nicosia, Steinbeis University Berlin,
Munich University of Applied Science, Liverpool John Moores University, University of
Portsmouth, University of applied sciences Mittweida, Mechatronics Association in Germany,
Alanus University, BOKU University of Natural Resources, Leipzig University, Phillips
University Marburg, Jepson School of Leadership Studies, University of Koeln, Bochum
University, University of Osnabruck
Involved in the following internationally funded projects: Tempus: DIMPTOT: Development
of an industry linked Mechatronics Program with Training of Trainers; RUCAS: Reorient
University Curricula to Address Sustainability; Development of Joint International Master
47 www.aucegypt.edu 48 http://www.bue.edu.eg/ 49 www.hu.edu.eg
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Degree and Lifelong Learning Framework in Mechatronics (JIM2L). FP7: MED SPRING:
Mediterranean Science, Policy, Research & INnovation Gateway; ADA: Establishment of a
market for solar water heaters in Egypt
National Telecommunications Institute50
Departments include: Computer Dept., Networks Dept., Transmission Dept., Switching Dept.
and Electronics Dept.
Research areas include: Cloud Computing, Wireless Communications, Optical Networks,
Smart Transport Systems
Information Technology Institute51
Departments include: Biomedical Informatics center of Excellence (BMICoE), eLearning
Centre of Excellence (ELICA), Java Education and Technology Services (JETS) Centre of
Excellence, System Development and Gaming Centre of Excellence (SDGCoE),
Mechatronics Department, Open Source Department, Geographical Information System
(GIS) Department
Software Engineering Competence Center (SECC)52
Departments include: R&D, Consultation and Training Department
Research areas include: Service Oriented Architecture, Cloud Computing, Semantic Web,
Model Driven Engineering, Ubiquitous Computing, Mobile Application Development,
Embedded Software Development
Involved in the following internationally funded projects: RECOCAPE: SECC of Egypt,
Tecnalia of Spain, VTT of Finland, and UNIBO of Italy formed an integrated consortium and
proposed the RECOCAPE project to leverage Egypt’s competencies in four state-of-the-art
technologies; SOA/ESB, Semantic Web, MDD, Ubiquitous Computing. The “RECOCAPE
project started November 2011 for 36 months and SECC was the coordinator of the project
The Software Engineering Competence Center (SECC), affiliated to ITIDA, is an Egyptian
leading organization in enhancing the quality, efficiency and level of innovation of ICT
companies. Its aim is to promote the companies’ global competitiveness by improving the
process and content of their product or service production. It supports the development of
the software industry through the provision of training, assessment, consultation and
certification. Over the past few years, SECC has developed its training services to provide a
growing number of beneficiaries with knowledge of technologies, frameworks, models and
best practices for software engineering and IT service management. SECC developed an
50 http://www.nti.sci.eg/ 51 http://www.iti.gov.eg 52 http://www.secc.org.eg/
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effective engagement model enabling it to tailor its service offerings to the needs of different
markets and target groups in support of this diversification.
Ain Shams University53
Departments include Engineering
Research areas include: Future Networks, Embedded Systems, Language Technologies,
Micro and nano-electronics, micro systems, Photonics, Microwave
Azhar University54
Departments include: Computer Engineering
Research areas include: Natural Language Processing, Content Technologies and Analysis
Arab Academy for Science, Technology & Maritime Transport
Departments include Electronics and Communications, College of Computing and
Information Technology
Research areas include: Design, Communication Antennas, Encryption, Solar Energy,
Fabrication, High Performance Computing including Grid and Cloud Computing (Electronics
and Communications); Big Data Technologies, Advanced data mining, Informatics,
Computers and Society (eLearning, eVoting, eBilling), Network protocols and programming
(College of Computing and Information Technology)
Beni Suef University55
Departments include: Faculty of computers and information
Research areas include: Cloud Computing, Technologies for IoT, Health data collection
Alexandria University56 (Future Networks, Embedded Systems)
Mansoura University57 (Future Networks, Embedded Systems)
Assiut University58 (Future Networks)
53 http://www.shams.edu.eg/ 54 http://www.azhar.edu.eg/En/index.htm 55 http://www.bue.edu.eg/ 56 http://www.alexu.edu.eg/index.php/en/ 57 http://www.mans.edu.eg/en 58 http://www.aun.edu.eg/
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6.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders the following thematic areas are considered important in
the context of the ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Topics Partners include
eHealth Health diagnosis and Telemedicine; Prevention and Treatment of HepC, Malaria etc; Self-management of healthcare; Integrated care; Rural access to ehealth services for young medical professionals
Cairo University (Department of Systems and Biomedical Engineering); Beni Suef University (Faculty of Computers and Information); Nile University (School of Communications & Information Technology, School of Engineering & Applied Sciences); American University of Cairo; British University of Cairo (Faculty of Informatics and Computer Science)
eAgriculture Geospatial data references for agricultural products; Access to pricing information
ITQAN for Smart Solutions; Nile University (Center for Informatics Science) Heliopolis University (Heliopolis Academy Lab for Biodynamic Agriculture and medicinal plants); National Research Centre
Technology-enhanced Learning
Personalised Learning Systems, Smart Education
Beni Suef University (Faculty of Computers and Information); Zewail City of Science and Technology; Software Engineering Competence Centre (SECC)
eGovernment Big Data Software Engineering Competence Centre (SECC); Zewail City of Science and Technology; Sadeem
Energy Renewable Energy, Smart Grids, Energy Efficiency, Smart Cities
Nile University (Nano Electronics Integrated Systems Center, Center for Nanotechnology); American University of Cairo: Heliopolis University
6.4.4 Mapping to H2020 Themes
The initial mapping to Horizon 2020 Research areas is summarised below:
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Components and Systems Cairo University (Depts of Information Technology, Computer Science, Electrical and Communication): Smart integrated systems, Technologies for IoT. Skills include: Smart-M3 architecture and implementation. Ontology development. Service Oriented Architectures (SOA). Participated in RECOCAPE FP7 project in cooperation with ITIDA-SECC
Nile University (Nano Electronics Integrated Systems Center and Wireless Intelligent Networks Center): Embedded Systems, High Performance Integrated circuits,
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Computer Aided Design of Integrated Circuits, RF ID, Micro-Electro-Mechanical devices, Many core chip design
American University of Cairo: Smart Embedded Components and Systems, Smart Integrated Systems
Heliopolis University (Faculty of Engineering): Complex System Engineering: PV System, Wind energy solutions, Diesel Gen., UPS
Zewail City of Science and Technology: Smart Systems
Advanced Computing Nile University (Center for Informatics Science): Software Engineering, Cloud Computing
American University of Cairo: Processor and System Architecture, Parallel Computing and Simulation Software.
Heliopolis University (Faculty of Engineering): Simulation Software
Egyptian National Scientific and Technical Information Network (ENSTINET): Parallel Computing
Future Internet Cairo University (Depts of Information Technology, Computer Science, Electrical and Communication): Optical and wireless networks. Skills include: High-speed interconnection networks for Data Centers, LTE-Adv Systems. Participated in the 4G (LTE) project funded by the National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA) of Egypt
Helwan University (Faculty of Computers and Information Systems): Human Computer Interaction, Cloud Computing, Data Mining, High Performance Computing, Mobile Computing
Nile University (Software Engineering Program, Information Security Program, Wireless Intelligent Networks Center, Nano electronics Integrated Systems Center, Center for Informatics Science): Software Engineering, Cloud Computing, Wireless Communication, Wireless Intelligent Networks, Peer to peer Networking, Cognitive communication, Wireless sensor networks, Wireless security, Information Security
American University of Cairo: Networks, Software and Services, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust
National Telecommunication Institute: Networks, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, Wireless Communication and Optical Networks
Egyptian National Scientific and Technical Information Network (ENSTINET): Networks, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust, Wireless Communication and All Optical Networks, Immersive Interactive Multimedia and Connected Enterprise
British University in Egypt (Faculty of Informatics and Computer Science): Cloud Computing
Arab Academy for Science, Technology & Maritime
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Transport: High Performance Computing including Grid and Cloud Computing, Communication Antennas, Networks
Beni Suef University: Cloud Computing, LTE Networks
ITIDA - SECC: Service Oriented Architecture, Cloud Computing
Content Technologies & Information Management
Helwan University (Faculty of Computers and Information Systems): Computational Linguistics, Data Management, Conceptual Mapping, Knowledge Engineering, Computer Arabization and Islamic applications, Speech Processing and Machine Learning
Nile University (Center for Informatics Science): Data Mining and Machine Learning, text mining, High Performance Computing, Peer to Peer Networking, ubiquitous computer, computing vision
American University of Cairo: Technologies for Language, Learning, Big Data Technologies' Advanced Data Mining, Machine Learning, Statistical Analysis and Visual Computing
Egyptian National Scientific and Technical Information Network (ENSTINET): Big Data Technologies, Advanced Data Mining
Azhar University (Computer Engineering Dept): Natural Language Processing, Content Technologies & Analysis
Arab Academy for Science, Technology & Maritime Transport: Data mining, eLearning, Informatics
Cairo University (Faculty of Computer Information): Information Management including Big Data, Content Management and Content Technologies
ITIDA - SECC: Semantic web and Semantic data management
Robotics Nile University (FACT (Festo Authorized Automation and Certified Training Center) for training in Mechatronics and Automation, Center for Informatics Science): Robotics
Key Enabling Technologies: Micro - Nano- electronics and Photonics
Nile University (Nano Electronics Integrated Systems Center, Center for Nanotechnology): Micro-Electro-Mechanical devices, Nanoelectronics Integrated Systems, sensor and actuator design, many core chip design, bio-chips and lab on a chip, printed electronics, membrane technology
Ains Shams University (Engineering Dept): Micro and nano-electronics, micro systems, Photonics
Cairo University (Faculty of Engineering, Electronics and Communications Dept): Micro and nano-electronics, micro systems.
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Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health Nile University (Center for Informatics Science, Center for Nanotechnology): Medical Image Processing, bio-informatics
American University of Cairo: Improved diagnostics, Expert Systems and Knowledge Discovery
British University in Egypt (Faculty of Informatics and Computer Science): Mobile-based Health applications
Beni Suef University: Health data collection and manipulation
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture
Nile University (Center for Informatics Science): Bio-informatics
Heliopolis University (Heliopolis Academy Lab for Biodynamic Agriculture and medicinal plants): Sustainable Agriculture, Sustainable and Competitive Agri-food Sector
National Research Centre (Nutrition Dept): Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture
National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries
Zagazig University
Secure, Clean and Efficient Energy Nile University (Nano Electronics Integrated Systems Center, Center for Nanotechnology): Renewable Energy, Smart Electricity grids, wireless electricity, energy harvesting.
American University of Cairo: Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency, Smart Cities (Worked on project funded by Ericsson to manage Traffic Signals using ICT in a city
Heliopolis University: Alternative Fuels and Mobile Energy Sources
New and Renewable Energy Authority
Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation
Academy of Scientific Research and Technology ASRT
Climate Action, Resource Efficiency and Raw Materials
Nile University (Nano Electronics Integrated Systems Center, Center for Informatics Science): Wireless Sensor Networks (MEMS sensors)
Heliopolis University: Eco-Innovation, Sustainable Management of Natural Resources, Transition Towards a Green Economy
Cairo University
Transport National Telecommunication Institute: Smart Transport Systems
Inclusive, Innovative and Reflective Societies
Nile University: Social entrepreneurship
Heliopolis University: eLearning, eCulture
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Bibliotec of Alexandria (CULTNAT): Heritage Visulaisation, Cultural Heritage
Secure Societies Nile University (Center for Informatics Science, Information Security graduate program): Information Security -risk and management.
American University of Cairo: Cyber Security
Level of Research Maturity
Egypt has a vibrant research community with strong experience in collaborative research having
secured participation in over 101 projects and securing research funding of over €16 million under
FP7. In the first Calls of Horizon 2020, Egypt secured 5 projects across a number of thematic areas.
To better understand and validate the research capacity of the various organizations in Egypt, ITIDA
(SECC) adopted the SciVal tool developed by the Elsevier publisher to analyze the publications of
the staff of the universities and the research institutes in Egypt. For each theme in the H2020, all
researchers in the institutes related to this theme were identified and their publication and research
history along with the various standard metrics of scientific publications (including citation and h-
index). After the review, the institution was included in the data as an institute with capacity in this
area/theme.
A great deal of work has been carried out in areas including Incubators to build links between
universities and entrepreneurial commercialisation of research. Quite a few international technology
companies have operations in Egypt, which clearly provides an additional emphasis to innovation
already driven by Egypt’s increasingly important software industry. While there is a clear focus on
technology adoption and developing applications, there is a strong research tradition in many of the
Egyptian universities.
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7. ETHIOPIA
7.1 Introduction
Ethiopia is situated in Eastern Africa and shares boundaries
with Somalia, Kenya, South Sudan, Sudan, Eritrea and
Djibouti. It has a surface area of 1,104,300 square
kilometres and is a federal state with nine regional states
and two city administrations. Its population is estimated at
99.45 million inhabitants (July 2015, CIA World Fact Book)
with a literacy rate of 49.1%. Ethiopia is Africa's oldest
independent country and its second largest in terms of
population. Almost 53% of the total population is between
15 - 64 years of age. Addis Ababa, the capital city, has a
population of 3.29 million (2015 CIA World Factbook).
Although Amharic is the official language of Ethiopia;
English and Arabic are widely spoken.
Ethiopia is a multi-ethnic society. The climate is tropical monsoon with wide topographic-induced
variation due to its terrain. In terms of natural resources, there are small reserves of gold, platinum,
copper, potash, natural gas and hydropower.
Ethiopia is one of the fastest growing non-oil economies in Africa. It is heavily dependent on
agriculture (accounts for 42.3% of GDP and 85% of total employment), which is often affected by
droughts (2014, CIA World Factbook).
Coffee is its major export crop.
In terms of ICT infrastructure, Ethio
Telecom provides telecommunication
services. There is an open-wire,
microwave radio relay, radio
communication in the HF, VHF and
UHF frequencies. Two domestic
satellites provide the national trunk
service (2011). There is 12,000 km
optic fibre cable infrastructure starting
from central Ethiopia to all directions
of the country and connected all cities with a capacity to transmit 40 Gbps along with the national
backbone.
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According to Ethio Telecom as at June 2015, here were 836,543 fixed telephone lines in use, 43
million mobile phone users and 13 million Internet users with 87% wireless coverage across
Ethiopia. MCIT has established 230 Community Information Centres and 11 community radio
stations to date in remote areas of the country to provide information on new ICT technology
transfer and implementations, healthcase, agricultural information and education issues. There is a
Government call centre that citizens can ring via a toll free number and discuss their queries in
relation to Government Ministries and Departments. The framework for the National Public Key
Infrastructure (PKI) is completed and has now moved into the implementation phase.
There are 31 public universities and 42 private institutions of higher education across the country.
The Government introduced the ‘ICTs in Education Implementation Strategy and Action Plan’ in
2010 as one of the pillars of the ICT4AD Plan to address the rural-urban divide in Ethiopia in terms
of access to computer in education.
7.2 ICT Background
In line with its ambition to become a middle-income country by 2025, Ethiopia has embarked on a
number of national programmes and views its ICT policy as an integral part of the country's larger
development goals and objectives.
The Ethiopian ICT Strategy proposes that the country advances its ICT Research and Development
by putting key enablers in place such as building a state-of-the-art broadband network that supports
academic and research networking, improving the incentives for academic institutions and the
private sector to promote ICT research and development and addressing key cross-cutting
challenges such as coordination, collaboration, women empowerment and financing. The success
of Research and Development for the ICT sector requires private public partnership, commitment by
the Government to provide the appropriate legal framework and conducive environments for
Research and Development. The Government, universities and research institutions need to
actively engage in the implementation of the strategy by availing the necessary human and financial
resources and embracing partnership.
Ethiopia’s National ICT Policy was first drafted and submitted to the Council of Ministers in 2002.
The key vision was to improve the social and economical well-being of the people of Ethiopia
through the exploitation of the opportunities created by ICT, for vitalising and ensuring the
establishment of a sustainable democratic system and good governance as well as for achievable,
sustainable and rapid socio-economic development.
The Ethiopian ICT Development Authority (EICTDA) was established in 2003 with a primary goal of
completing and implementing the ICT Development Policy. One of the main pillars of the policy was
the e-Government Strategy, which implemented 211 eServices (75 informational and 133
transactional) over a five-year period. Priority Services include: eAgriculture, eEducations, eHealth,
eTrade, Employee Management, eTransport, Social Benefit Management, eTourism, eTax, eCourt,
eMunicipality, Unified Billing System (UBS), Passport and Visas.
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The National ICT Policy and Strategy 200959 plans to leverage knowledge and information as a tool
for socio-economic development as well as promote and enhance the ICT sector and its
contribution in Ethiopia's political, social and economic transformation. Its key objectives are to:
Build an accessible ICT infrastructure throughout the country;
Create the necessary skilled human resources requires for the proper development and
application of ICT and expand the society's basic knowledge and usage of it;
Develop the necessary legal framework for the application of ICT and design and
implementation appropriate security systems for the prevention of unlawful practices
Promote the use of ICT for modernizing the civil and public services to enhance its efficiency
and effectiveness for service delivery; so as to promote good governance and reduce wastage
of resources; and
Expand and strengthen the role of the private sector to ensure the rapid development of ICT
The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT) was established pursuant to
Proclamation No.691 in October 2010 to strengthen the institutional framework for undertaking
policy planning, development and implementation of ICT initiatives in a coordinated manner. MCIT
is a result of the merger of three previous agencies: The Ethiopian Information and Communications
Technology Development Agency (EICTDA), The Ethiopian Telecommunications Agency (ETA) and
the Communication wing of the former Ministry of Transport and Communications.
The Ministry is responsible for promoting the expansion of communication services and the
development of Information Technology; setting and implementing standards to ensure the
provision of quality, reliable and safe communication and information technology services;
regulating the rate of telecommunication service charges; Licensing and regulating
telecommunication and postal service operators; facilitating the creation of institutional capacity for
the effective implementation of information technology development policy; assigning and
monitoring government domain names and coordinating all stakeholders for the creation and proper
utilization of country code top level domain, and facilitate the proper implementation of same;
facilitating the creation of fast and affordable information access; follow up, and provide necessary
support for the implementation of modern information network between and within federal and
regional government institutions and ensure mission critical systems and services in public sector
are computerized and online services are gradually available to users.
The Ministry consists of the following Directorates: Capacity Building Directorate; E-Government
Directorate; Standard and Regulatory Directorate; ICT Private Sector Development Coordination
Directorate. The Capacity Building Directorate among other responsibilities is responsible for
supporting ICT Research and Technology Development and guiding, supporting and coordinating
national ICT HR and ICT RTD in line with national socio-economic development priorities.
59 http://www.mcit.gov.et/sites/default/files/ICT%20Policy_final.pdf
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The National Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy (2012)60 was formulated by the
Ministry of Science and Technology to support rapid learning, adaptation and utilization of effective
technologies by 2022. It aims to create a technology transfer framework that enables the building of
national capabilities in technological learning, adaptation and utilization through searching, selecting
and importing effective foreign technologies in manufacturing and service providing enterprises.
The major objectives of the STI policy are to:
Establish and implement a coordinated and integrated general governance framework for
building STI capacity;
Establish and implement an appropriate national Technology Accumulation and Transfer
(TeCAT) system;
Promote research that is geared towards technology learning and adaptation;
Develop, promote and commercialise useful indigenous knowledge and technologies;
Define the national science and technology landscape and strengthen linkages among the
different actors in the national innovation system;
Ensure implementation of STI activities in coordination with other economic and social
development programs and plans;
Create conclusive environment to strengthen the role of the private sector in technology transfer
activities sustainably.
The key policy issues include technology transfer, human resource development, manufacturing
and service providing enterprises, research, financing and incentive schemes, national quality
infrastructure development, universities, research institutes, TVET institutions and industries
linkage, intellectual property system, science and technology information, environmental
development and protection, and international cooperation.
7.3 Current ICT Initiatives and projects
ICT Initiatives are primarily focused on eGovernment and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI),
eInfrastructure including EthERNet (Ethiopian Education and Research Network), Entrepreneurship
and eEducation.
Over the past few years, there have been a number of national initiatives focused on stimulating the
use of ICT including: the National Data Set; National Enterprise Service Bus (NESB); Public Key
Infrastructure (PKI); EthioICT-Village; WoredaNet; Integrated Financial Management Information
System; ICT Business Incubation Centre; EthERNet (Ethiopian Education and Research Network)
and SchoolNet.
60 http://www.most.gov.et/STI%20Policy%20(English%20ver).pdf
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7.3.1 eGovernment Initiatives
7.3.1.1 National Data Set
This project aims to provide a national level data set of commonly used data elements across
Ministries, which can be used by all inter-ministerial applications as well as channels of delivery
(national portal, mobile portal, CSC, NCC etc.) for delivering eServices. The National Open data set
Master Plan is in progress.
Coverage: All Ministries and Agencies of Ethiopia
Project Duration: 2014 - September 2015
7.3.1.2 National Enterprise Service Bus (NESB)
The objective of this project is to provisioning a platform for seamless integration of Ministry /
agency applications and database at the back end; integrating all front-end channels to deliver
eServices. The National Enterprise Service Bus Master Plan preparation is in progress.
Coverage: All Ministry and agency application identified in the eGovernment strategy
Project Duration: 2013 - 2014
7.3.1.3 Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)
The objective of this project is to provide PKI based identification, integrity and non-repudiation for
online transactions related to the eGovernment projects in Ethiopia
Coverage: Nationwide initiative for issuance and use of PKI for all electronic transactions for
government and private
Project Duration: The expected project duration is 1.5 to 2 years
7.3.1.4 Open Data Implementation The project aims to implement open data at national level.
Project Duration: May 2015 - February 2016
EthioICT-Village
MCIT is in the process of setting up the EthioICT-Village in an area of 200 hectares in Addis Ababa,
which aims to establish Ethiopia as the premier IT Hub of Africa. It aims to provide a world-class
business environment along with a conductive policy and regulatory framework, state-of-the-art
infrastructure and value proposition. It will incorporate an ICT Business zone, Assembly and
Warehouse zone and a Knowledge Park zone.
The EthioICT-Village is going to be developed in two phases. The first phase with an area of
approximately 70 hectares is currently under construction.
Funding sources: Government of Ethiopia
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7.3.1.5 WoredaNET
WoredaNET is an eGovernment network connecting more than 600 local, regional and federal
government offices across the country. It is a terrestrial and satellite based network designed with
the primary objective to provide ICT services such as video conferencing, directory, messaging and
Voice Over IP, and Internet connectivity to the federal, regional and “woreda” level government
entities. The WoredaNet implementation project was part of the broader eGovernment Strategy.
The goal of WoredaNet is to establish a multi-service IP-based service by the use of Terrestrial
Broadband and VSAT infrastructure for the delivery of services to government and the citizens. The
initiative is aimed towards the improvisation of Federal and Regional Government administrative
efficiency, effectiveness and productivity, as well as, information provision and service delivery to
the public at large.
The main objectives of the project include:
To bridge the digital divide between urban and rural communities;
To provide knowledge and information to citizens;
To build organizational capacity at all levels of government;
To provide the lowest level of government with accurate and timely information.
The second phase has commenced.
Geographic scope and frame: All the participating ministries, agencies, regional and local
government offices to be covered in the Woreda-net. 216 electronic services will be delivered.
Funding source: Government of Ethiopia
7.3.1.6 Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS)
IFMIS enables public institutions to use a single system with extensive facilities from one physical
source. This enables the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development (MoFED) to improve the
quality of financial decision-making by generating timely financial information. IFMIS is implemented
in government offices.
Geographic scope and frame: Regional and Federal Offices
Funding sources: Government of Ethiopia
7.3.1.7 ICT Business Incubation Centre (MICT-BIC)
MICT-BIC was initiated in 2008 under the Information and Communication Technology Assisted
Development (ICTAD) Project of EICTDA in cooperation with the World Bank and the German
Development Service. The project aims to provide solutions to difficulties that graduates of higher
education institutions in Tigray Region, Amhara Region, Oromiya Region and South Nations and
Nationalities Region are facing such as finding employment in governmental and private
organisations. The main objective of MICT-BIC is to serve as a vehicle for development of
competitive ICT based MSEs and foster technology innovation in the above mentioned regions.
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The Incubation Programme is targeted at graduates with ICT related business ideas and young
companies that are interested in incubation services. MICT-BIC is offering individual advisory and
support to develop a comprehensive business plan. In addition, the incubation centre provides a
standardized training programme on entrepreneurship, business plan development and incubation
services. Currently there are two Incubation centres in Jigjiga and Diredawa, which are commencing
activities.
Geographic scope: Tigray Region, SNNP Region, Amhara Region,Diredawa and Somali
Financing sources: Government of Ethiopia, World Bank, German Development Service
7.3.2 eEducation Initiatives
7.3.2.1 EthERNEt – Ethiopian Educational and Research Network
EthERNet was initiated in 2001 as part of a national capacity building program among other projects
that aim to provide connectivity and specialised applications for schools and local governments. The
project was launched to build and deliver highly interconnected and high performance networks for
Universities and other Educational and Research Institutions in Ethiopia. More specifically
EthERNet was aimed to build and deliver high performance networking that connected these
institutions in the world, and by doing this to enable them to share educational resources and
collaborate both within Ethiopia and globally.
Currently EthERNet has a network with 20Mbit/sec or better bandwidth that ties many of the
established universities in Ethiopia. In addition, plans have been made to build the next generation
network that would provide 10Gbit/sec to each of the public universities and also interconnect them.
A driver in this new-high-performance/bandwidth network is EthERNet’s vision to provide a highly
interconnected and advanced network of Ethiopian Research and Education institutions that
enables institutions to actively and effectively participate in the national, regional and global
research and education communities. The Ministry of Education is currently working with ICT Centre
of Excellence (Ethiopia) to build a strong organisational framework for EthERNet that will enable it
to engage with a wide range of stakeholders such as Universities, and involve them in helping set
the direction and services that EthERNet develops and delivers.
Geographic Scope and frame: 22 Ethiopian public universities are connected
Funding source: Government of Ethiopia
7.3.2.1 SchoolNet
SchoolNet is a satellite-based network that provides Internet connectivity as well as TV-broadcast
educational content to secondary schools across Ethiopia. SchoolNet aims to provide students in
rural schools with access to equal learning opportunities to those in urban schools.
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The Ministry of Education of Ethiopia launched the SchoolNet Project in 2003 with support from
UNDP61. Around 756 schools were connected through this project. The second phase of SchoolNet
project is ongoing to connect more schools and to provide internet access.
Geographic scope and frame: high schools, and preparatory Schools, total of 756+
Funding sources: Government of Ethiopia and UNDP
7.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
7.4.1 National Priorities
Ethiopia's research and development agenda focuses on incremental approaches and areas that
are relevant for economic growth such as core computing, internet technologies, social and
economic applications, policy and regulation and the content industry.
National ICT Research Priorities include:
Physical Analytics Research in Agriculture
To increase farm productivity
Upgrade & expanding the deployed call centre service of farmers
Agro-meteorology that can be applied towards crop yield monitoring and optimization.
Applying the forecasting of soil moisture and temperature technology, among other things.
Applying Water Distribution Management technology-from dam to farm because more than
50% of water is lost during transport
Smart Agriculture that enables the delivery of the right amount of water and fertilizer with
high spatial and temporal resolution in order to increase crop yield.
Institutions involved include: MCIT, MOA, Ethiopia's leading Universities, Industry, TVET
Agriculture institutes
Physical Analytics Research in Solar Forecasting, Data Centre and Infrastructure
Renewable energy source is already an important part of the power mix. So forecasting
technology is used to mange solar energy supply and demand.
Data Center research with the MMT (data center infrastructure management solution).
One critical question in relation to infrastructure is when and where to perform maintenance,
which requires research
Institutions involved: MCIT, Ministry Energy, Universities, Industry, TVET institutes
Health Care & Life Sciences Research
Focused on Hospitals / Healthcare, Sensors, Controlled Release of Therapeutics
Institutions involved: MCIT, MOH, Universities, Health Sector NGO, Industry, TVET Health
institutes
61 https://www.cisco.com/web/about/ac79/docs/wp/Ethiopia_SS_0320a.pdf
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Natural Language Processing
Indigenous Knowledge
7.4.2 National Research Capacity
The table provides overview of some of the universities with ICT/Engineering courses:
Institution Location ICT/Engineering Department(s)
ICT/ Engineering Teaching Staff
Undergraduate Students
Post-Graduate (Masters, PhD)
Addis Ababa University
Addis Ababa School of Information Science
25 600 260
Ambo University College
Ambo
Department of Computer Science
47 700 0
Hawassa University
Hawassa 30 950 -
Arbaminch University
Arbaminch Institute of Technology Department of
Computer Science
17 lecturers & 20 Assistant Lecturers
885 30
Adama Science and Technology
university
Adama School of Technology; School of Mathematics & Computing Science
61 2000 69
Haramaya University
Haramaya College of Computing and Informatics (Department of
Computer Science, Information Science, Information Systems,
Information Technology, Management
Information Systems, Software Engineering)
78 1320 0
Jimma University Jimma Institute of Technology Department of
Computing
49 939 69
Mekelle University
Mekelle Ethiopian Institute of Technology
15 120 Not Yet Started
Mekelle University
Department of Computer Science,
Information Systems and Information
Technology
29 1500 20
The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology organised an IST-Africa Stakeholder
meeting with ICT stakeholders in Addis Ababa on 05 December 2013 and 19 November 2014
focused on ICT-related Research and Horizon 2020. Based on this consultation process, each
stakeholder identified their areas of research expertise and track record and has been encouraged
to develop an organisational profile. A summary of these findings are provided below:
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Addis Ababa University62
The Addis Ababa University (AAU), which was established in 1950 is the oldest and largest higher
education institution in Ethiopia, has a long track record of teaching, research and community
service activities.
Based on prioritising research, AAU set up an Office of the Vice President for Research and
Technology Transfer, which incorporates the Directorate of Research (3 offices focused on
Research Capacity Building; Thematic Research, Sponsored Collaborative Grants and Small
Grants; and Graduate Research Coordination), the Directorate of University-Industry Linkage and
Technology Transfer (2 offices focused on Technology Transfer/Parks, Intellectual Property
Rights, Adaptive Research and Incubation Centers; and Research Consultancy Services), and the
Directorate of Publications and Disseminations (2 offices - Director for University Press and the
office of Research Dissemination).
The IT Doctoral Programme was established in 2008. There are currently 70 PhD candidates and
six research tracks.
There are Masters students in the area of Computer Science (100), Information Science (100) and
Engineering (100). To date over 120 Master Students have graduates in the areas of Computer
Science and Engineering.
Relevant Depts: Institute of Technology (School of Electrical and Computer Engineering) IT
Doctoral Programme, School of Information Sciences
Research tracks in the IT Doctoral Programme include: Information retrieval; Language
Technologies; Software Engineering; Wireless Communication; IP Networking (low power
computing) and Information Systems
Research tracks in the School of Information Sciences for Masters include: eHealth and
Health Informatics (in cooperation with University of Oslo); Information Sciences and
Computational Linguistics. Research areas of interest include: eHealth, eGovernment and
Technology-enhanced Learning
AAU has long-term partnerships in place with a number of institutions in France, UK, Spain
and other EU Member States and has a good track record of FP7 participations (4 projects).
Arba Minch University63
Arba Minch University (AMU) is a research university located in Arba Minch, about 500 km south
of Addis Ababa. The Department of Computer Science and IT runs a Masters in Computer
Science and Masters in Information Technology.
62 http://aau.edu.et 63 http://amu.edu.et
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Relevant Depts: Department of Computer Science and IT, Department of Electrical
Engineering
Research areas include: Future Internet, Cloud Computing; Big Data; Security (penetration
testing); Technology-enhanced Learning; Language Technologies
AMU has partnerships in place with a number of institutions in Europe and has been
involved in 2 Environment projects under FP7.
Jimma University64
Jimma University (JU) is a public Higher Educational institution established in December 1999 as
a result of the amalgamation of Jimma College of Agriculture (founded in 1952), and Jimma
Institute of Health Sciences (established in 1983). The two campuses are located in Jimma city
352 km southwest of Addis Ababa with an area of 167 hectares. JU is Ethiopia's first Innovative
Community Oriented Education Institution of Higher Learning. Research is currently ongling
focused on design and implementation of intergrated ubiquitious eTourism services for Ethiopia.
Relevant Depts: College of Engineering and Technology, College of Public Health and
Medical Science
Research areas include: Internet of Things, Language Technologies, IP & Mobile
Networking, Health
University of Gondar65
The University of Gondar was originally established in 1954 as a Public Health College and
Training Center (Gondar College of Medical Sciences until 2003). It currently has 21,636
undergraduates, 1,829 postgraduate students and provides 56 undergraduate and 64
postgraduate programs. Masters Programmes are provided in the areas of Computer Science,
Information Science and Information Technology.
Relevant Dept: Computer Science, School of Technology; Department of Health Informatics,
Institute of Public Health
Research areas include: Information Retrieval, Languages architectures (programming),
Wireless Networking, Health Sciences, Agriculture (Crop Production), Water, Environment,
Sustainable Energy
University of Gondar has a partnership with several European institutions and a track record
in FP7. The Institute of Public Health is involved in a Horizon 2020 project funded under ICT-39-
2015.
64 http://www.ju.edu.et/ 65 http://www.uog.edu.et/
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Haramaya University66
Haramaya University is one of the oldest universities in Ethiopia, initially set up as collaboration
with the Oklahoma State University in 1952 and then as a College under Addis Ababa University
in 1968. In 2004 the Faculty of Technology was added and the Faculty of Computing and
Informatics and Faculty of Applied Sciences in 2008.
Relevant Depts: College of Computing and Informatics – Dept of Computer Science, Dept of
Information Systems, Dept of Information Science, Dept of Information Technology, Dept of
Software Engineering
Research areas include: Data Mining, Information Retrieval, Technology-enhanced
Learning, Cyber Security
Mekelle University67
Mekelle University was established in May 2000 as a merger of Mekelle Business College and
Mekelle University College. It is located in Mek'ele, 783 kilometers north of Addis Ababa.
Relevant Depts: Ethiopian Institute of Technology, College of Health Sciences, Institute of
Geo-Information and Earth Observation Sciences,
Research projects include: MU-IUC Projects (The Flemish Inter-University Council (VLIR)
Institutional University Cooperation Program); NORAD Project; HP-UNESCO Brain Gain Project;
FP7 Projects (Environment - WAHARA 2011 – 2016, Food Agriculture and Biotechnology -
EAU4FOOD 2011 – 2015)
HiLCoE (Higher Learning Centre of Excellence)
HiLCoE is a private college established in 1998 and offers Undergraduate and Post Graduate
Degrees in Computer Science. Following accreditation from the Ministry of Education in
September 2009, HiLCoE launched two Masters programs in Software Engineering and Computer
Science.
Relevant Dept: School of Computer Science & Technology
Research areas include: Applied research (Tech Transfer); eServices; Information System
Security; Environment and Green Technology
ICT Centre of Excellence
ICT Center of Excellence (ICTCoE) was formed by the former Ethiopian Information and
Communication Technology Development Agency (EICTDA), now the Ministry of Communication
and Information Technology (MCIT), and is hosted by the Addis Ababa University (AAU). ICTCoE
66 http://www.haramaya.edu.et/ 67 http://www.mu.edu.et/
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aims to be a catalyst and an enabler of dramatic progress of ICT in Ethiopia to support socio
economic development.
The Center of Excellence aims to utilize innovation based on high quality research and
development, training, consulting, and technology transfer, to drive rapid advances of ICT, and its
deployment for breakthrough results in national development. ICT CoE will do this by developing
networks of partnerships with organizations, both public and private, and local as well as
international. These partnerships will enable the CoE to develop into a hub or focal point that will
mobilize a wide range of resources.
The Research and Development department is mandated to conduct use-inspired ICT research,
produce innovative technologies, carry out market oriented training and/or education of ICT
professionals, disseminate relevant state-of-the-art ICT tools and best practices, and provide
consultancy services in relevant areas of ICT that are not addressed by other organizations.
Research areas include: Localisation, eLearning, Open Sources Software, Service
Management
Ministry of Education – ICT Directorate
Research areas of interest include: Cloud Computing, Big Data, Open Source, Technology-
enhanced Learning
Ethiopia Telecom
Relevant Dept: Network Division
Research areas: eGovernment, eServices, Content Technologies, Future Internet, Advanced
Computing
OSH (Private consulting company)
Research areas include: Cloud Computing, Green ICT
7.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders and discussion during the IST-Africa H2020 Workshop on
19 November 2014 the following thematic areas are considered to be important in the context of the
ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Topics Partners include
eHealth / mHealth Health Information Systems/Electronic Health Records; Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH); Health diagnosis and Telemedicine; prevention and treatment of Malaria, TB, diabetes and tropical diseases; Mechanisms and alarms to deal with compliance issues (remembering to take medication, attend
Addis Ababa University (School of Information Science); University of Gondar (Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health; Dept. of Computer Science, School of Technology); Debre Birhan
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clinic etc); indigenous knowledge system and Networks to support specific patient groups
University (College of Computing); Jimma University
eAgriculture Supporting pastoralists; Cloud Computing for Agricultural community
Arba Minch University (Department of Computer Science, Institute of Technology); University of Gondar
Natural Language Processing
Amharic - English eDictionary Addis Ababa University (School of Information Science)
7.4.4 Mapping to H2020 Themes
The initial mapping to Horizon 2020 Research areas is summarised below:
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution and Research area
Future Internet Addis Ababa University: Wireless Computing, IP Networking
Arba Minch University: Future Internet, Cloud Computing
Jimma University: Internet of Things, IP & Mobile Networking
University of Gondar: Wireless Networking
Bahir Dar University, Adama S&T University: Future Internet, Cloud Computing, Wireless Networking
Mekelle University (MIT): Wireless Computing, IP Networking, cloud computing
Content Technologies & Information Management
Addis Ababa University: Computational Linguistics & Language Technologies, Technology-enhanced Learning, Information Systems
Arba Minch University: Big Data, Technology-enhanced Learning; Language Technologies
Jimma University: Language Technologies
University of Gondar: Languages architectures (programming), Information Retrieval
Haramaya University: Data Mining, Information Retrieval, Technology-enhanced learning
ICT College of Excellence: Localisation, Technology-enhanced Learning
Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health Addis Ababa University: Health Informatics, eHealth
Jimma University: Health Sciences
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University of Gondar: Health Informatics, eHealth
Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture University of Gondar: Crop Production
Mekelle University
Secure, Clean and Efficient Energy University of Gondar: Sustainable Energy
Climate Action, Resource Efficiency and Raw Materials
University of Gondar: Water, Environment
Mekelle University: Environment
HiLCoE: Environment and Green Technology
Arba Minch University
Addis Ababa University
Secure Societies Haramaya University: Cyber Security
HiLCoE: Information System Security
Level of Research Maturity
Ethiopia has a good research base and experience in collaborative research with participation in
over 23 projects and securing research funding of over €3.66 million in funding under FP7 as well
as funding secured by 24 individual researchers through Marie Curie Actions. Addis Ababa
University, Arba Minch University Mekelle University and University of Gondar have a track record
from participation in FP7 projects.
During the first year of Horizon 2020, Ethiopian organisations have secured participation in four
Horizon 2020 projects: SOCIETY (1 Project) [RINEA, 01/03/2015 - 01/03/2018, African Union] and
three projects under ICT-39-2015 (DMC-MALVEC, mHealth4Afrika and ist4land). To date Univeristy
of Gondar and Bahir Dar University have secured H2020 projects.
Some institutions have well developed Masters and PhD Programmes and are looking at
collaborative research cross border. The increase in the number of Higher Education Institutions
and the Government’s emphasis on leveraging ICT are providing strong building blocks for the
development of further research capacity in the country.
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8. REPUBLIC OF KENYA
8.1 Introduction
Kenya is situated in East Africa, bordering the Indian
Ocean and sharing boundaries with Tanzania, Uganda,
South Sudan, Ethiopia and Somalia. It has a surface area
of 580,367 square km, made up of forty-seven (47)
counties. The population as at July 2015 was estimated at
45.9 million inhabitants with a literacy rate of 78% (CIA
World Factbook). 55.5 percent of the population is
between 15 and 64 years of age. Nairobi, the capital city,
has a population of 3.915 million (2015 - CIA World
Factbook). The official languages are English and
Kiswahili.
The Government of Kenya through the Vision 2030
Development Blue Print recognises the importance of ICT in economic development and has
therefore initiated major steps to promote its use. One of the major initiatives that the Government is
pursuing is to improve ICT infrastructure in order to bridge the digital divide and lower the cost of
communications. The Government is also levelling the ground through the development and
implementation of policy and regulations aimed at attracting investment within the sector. The
Government recognises information to be a resource that must be generated, collected, organized,
leveraged, secured and preserved to enhance national prosperity.
There are four mobile operators in Kenya: Safaricom Ltd, Airtel Networks Kenya Ltd, Essar Telecom
Kenya Ltd and Telekom Kenya Limited (Orange). According to Communication Authority of Kenya
statistics, mobile penetration is at 88.1% as at September 201568, with 37.8 million subscriptions
compared with 32.8 million in September 2014. Fixed lines have continued to decrease to 87,111 as
at September 2015. Internet penetration increased to 74.2% with internet subscriptions increasing
to 31.9 million in September 2015 compared with 23.2 million in September 2014.
The ICT sector in Kenya has changed dramatically over the past decade transitioning to a
burgeoning market. In terms of ICT infrastructure, a national fibre optic infrastructure is in place and
four submarine cables are online (TEAMS - East Africa Marine System, SEACOM, EASSy - East
African Submarine Systems, and LION Optical Fibre Submarine Cable System). The expanded
terrestrial fibre optic cable (5,500 kms) is complete and linked to the undersea cable. As a
consequence, the price of international connectivity has dropped from $7,500/month for 2Mbps to
$650/month in 2011. The volume of communications has increased almost 300 times. Over the last
68 CA Quarterly Sector Statistics Report, July - September 2015
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decade, ICT has outperformed all others sectors growing at an average of 20 percent per year and
propelling the combined transport and communications sector into the economy’s second largest.:
Kenya is recognized as having taken a leading role in using ICT in access to financial services, for
example, with the advent of M-PESA an application launched by Safaricom in 2007 access to
financial services has significantly increased, with around ¾ of the adult population using mobile
money and transfers estimated at US$7billion annually (20 percent of GDP) by phone.
The number of Higher Education institutions in Kenya has grown considerably over the past three
years as a result of greater demand for University Education and the Government policy of
enhancing access hence Constituency University Colleges becoming accredited as fully fledged
Universities. There are now 23 fully chartered public Universities, 10 public University Constituent
Colleges, 6 public research institutes, 17 accredited private Universities, 11 private Universities with
letter of interim authority and 5 private University Colleges.
7.2 ICT Background
There are five key policy documents guiding the ICT and Science, Technology and Innovation (STI)
sector in Kenya: Kenya ICT Policy 2006 (under review), eGovernment Strategy, Kenya ICT National
Master Plan 2017, National Broadband Strategy and Kenya Science, Technology and Innovation
(STI) Policy 2012. From a national development program point of view the key policy documents are
the Kenya Vision 2030 and the STI Medium Term Plan for 2013 - 2017.
Kenya Vision 2030 was launched in 2008 as a development programme to be implemented in
successive five year Medium-Term Plans (MTP) to transform Kenya into "a middle-income country
providing a high quality life to all its citizens by 2030". The Vision is based on three pillars -
economic, social and political. Within the MTP for 2008 - 2012 one of the six priorities within the
economic pillar includes Business Process off-shoring and Information Technology enabled
Services. Within the social pillar, priorities include Education and Training and Labour and
Employment (strengthening linkages between industry and training institutions). ICT is an important
pillar of Vision 2030 to ensure connectivity for all to ICT services through communities, schools and
hospitals.
During the first MTP, Kenya witnessed growth of key BPO companies such as Kencall, Safaricom,
Kentech and Horizon. Growth was also witnessed in other related industries such as computer
hardware manufacturing, software development, information and broadcasting, filming and digital
content development. In the second MTP (2013 – 2017), the government’s Goal over the planned
period is to transform Kenya into a BPO/ITES hub for the East African region and beyond, building
on the progress achieved to connect every Kenyan to the new infrastructure and harness ICT for
efficient and effective government, e-commerce, economic growth and job creation for the youth.
Flagship projects in this sector include completing the first phase of the Konza Technology City,
capacity and skills development and local digital content development.
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Vision 2030 Science, Technology and Innovation Sector plan (2013-2017) has also identified
Telecommunications, Electronics and Computers (TEC) as one of the nine priority thrusts that will
provide the country with technologies and innovations that will develop high-tech vibrant, affordable
and globally competitive ICT infrastructure and technology.
In order to support Vision 2030, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology was mandated
to work in partnership with key stakeholders to develop and implement a Science, Technology and
Innovation Policy and Strategic Framework. The draft Science Technology and Innovation Bill took
three years to prepare and the Bill was passed in January 2013. The new Policy aimed to set up
three bodies under the State Department in charge of Science, Technology and Innovation:
1. Upgrade the National Council for Science and Technology to the National Commission for
Science and Technology, which will consult stakeholders to determine STI priorities. It will be
responsible for regulation and inspection of research facilities and programmes
2. The Kenya National Innovation Agency, with offices in all 47 Counties. It will map Innovations,
institutionalise linkages between HEIs, research institutes, public and private sector Innovation
Stakeholders and provide support focusing on Innovation, Incubation and diffusion. Areas of
particular interest include ICT and Mobile Telephony.
3. The National Research Foundation to mobilise and manage financial resources to create
knowledge, innovation and development in all fields of STI.
In late 2012 the Kenya Parliament indicated a target of up to 2% of GDP would be invested in
national research and Innovation going forward. To date this has not been achieved. The National
Innovation Agency and National Research Foundation are in the process of being setup and the
Boards have already been formed.
The ST&I Policy 2012 aims to help facilitate achievement of Kenya Vision 2030 by creating a
Knowledge Economy; promote competitiveness in key economic sectors; create enterprises and
employment; expand industrialisation; and enhance quality of life through innovation.
During April 2012, the Kenya ICT Authority (previously called ICT Board) launched the Connected
Kenya Master Plan, an initiative of the Ministry of ICT to drive aggressive growth in the ICT sector
by 2017. Its vision is focused on every citizen being connected, Kenya becoming a leading ICT hub,
public services for all and Kenya becoming a knowledge society. The three key intervention
priorities are Digital Inclusion, ICT Innovation and Access beyond Broadband.
The Kenya Communications Act (No. 2 of 1998) and Kenya Communications (Amendment) Act
2009 provides the framework for regulating the communications sector. The Information and
Communications Technology Sector Policy Guidelines were published in March 2006.
The Communications Authority of Kenya (previously Communications Commission of Kenya (CCK))
is the regulatory authority. The regulatory approach in Kenya is pro-Innovation as demonstrated
through support for innovative ICT services like M-PESA. While communication sector liberalisation
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has had a positive effect on the deployment of infrastructure and services, there are still access
gaps in isolated areas where operators cannot envisage ROI. As a result, CA undertook a number
of pilot projects to establish 16 school-based ICT centres across the eight provinces, four tele-
centres and eight centres for people with disabilities. CA also partnered with Kenya Institute of
Education to support the digitisation of the secondary school curriculum. Legislation is in place for
the Universal Service Fund but the Universal Service Advisory Council needs to be put in place.
There then needs to be an engagement with consumers of services and all relevant Ministries to get
a multiplier effect. The Universal Services Strategy will provide funding for experts to come up with
models for funding. Currently funding mechanisms are scattered, once-off with limited coordination.
In 2013, the Government of Kenya launched the National Broadband Strategy (NBS) which was
spearheaded by the Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology (MoICT), in
collaboration with the Communications Authority of Kenya (with technical assistance from USAID’s
Global Broadband Initiative Program). The overall objective of this strategy is to provide quality
broadband services to all citizens
8.3 Current ICT Initiatives and projects
There are a wide range of ICT Initiatives and projects ongoing in Kenya including the Laptop
Programme, Digital Inclusion Projects (Pasha Centres/Digital Villages, Wezesha Initiative),
Business Process Outsourcing, Local Content Programme (Tandaa Digital Content Grants, Open
Data Portal), Information Security and Other Initiatives (Konza Technology Park, zero-rated taxes
on imported ICT hardware, eGovernment, Skills Programmes).
8.3.1 Kenya Education Network (KENET)
KENET69 was established in 1999 as a membership institution for educational and research
institutions to provide the National Research and Educational Network in Kenya and its vision was
enacted in 2001. It is a not-for-profit Trust with seven registered Trustees (five Vice Chancellors, PS
Education, DG CCK) and is governed by a Board of Trustees assisted by a Management Board. It
has 86 full Members and is the largest NREN in Africa after TENET in South Africa. It is currently
housed within the Library of the University of Nairobi, with a data centre in the University of Nairobi
and a mirror data centre in the United States International University. It provides cost-effective
Internet connectivity to its member institutions. There are 115 campuses across Kenya. All
universities and university colleges are connected to KENET except Mount Kenya University. This
critical mass allows KENET to have the necessary purchasing power to get value for money on
behalf of its members.
KENET is licensed by the Communications Commission of Kenya as an Alternative Network Facility
Provider for educational purposes. KENET is managing the largest IP network in Kenya. It is
responsible for all nodes and it provides the bandwidth to the gate of the campus. There are
69 http://kenet.or.ke/
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currently six points of presence – Nairobi (hosted by University of Nairobi), Mombasa (hosted by
Mombasa Polytechnic University), Meru (hosted by Kenya Methodist University), Nakuru (hosted by
Egerton University), Eldoret (hosted by Moi University) and Kisumu (hosted by Maseno University).
It purchases connectivity in bulk based on a mixture of lease lines from commercial service
providers as well as dark fibre, which it lights up. KENET provides hands on training for one year
and can also provide certification. There is an equipment node in each University and KENET has
empowered technical staff within each university to take responsibility for maintenance of the local
area network. KENET manages the link to Amsterdam/London, the circuit and the data centres. It is
currently working with the campuses to enable Wireless Infrastructure. It is estimated that there are
currently 250,000 students across the country. The wireless networks in the campuses are being
designed to support up to 5,000 concurrent users.
The network was built in cooperation with Government investments and the Government of Kenya
has provided funds for necessary equipment. The Kenya ICT Authority (previously Kenya ICT
Board) procures equipment and hand it over in trust to KENET, who insures it and negotiates with
HEIs for the space to install the equipment. KENET is run as a Trust to solve the challenges of its
university members and is responsible for running the network on a sustainable not-for-profit basis.
Each member institution pays a fee for connectivity based on the capacity required.
KENET has a small infrastructure grant from Google and works with the Google Cash community
aggregating traffic. Google App-s supporting Programs (GASP) is available to universities in Kenya,
Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa and Uganda. Google is working with Kenyan Universities to
provide ubiquitous Internet access and improve the experience of users. Google will match the
university's investment on a 1:1 basis up to a predetermined limit for qualifying campus
infrastructure projects that improve connectivity for staff and students. Google plans to launch an
Internet Measurements Lab during 2013, which will be hosted by KENET. This will provide data and
tools to support regulation.
KENET promotes collaboration in STEM research (Health, Agriculture, Education, ICT, Engineering)
and ICT-based Research Collaboration opportunities. KENET supports research and innovation
champions through sponsorships to participate in international conferences and workshops and
collaboration research through mini-grants.
KENET has set up a Shibboleth Identity provider with the support of the ei4Africa FP7
eInfrastructures research team. Shibboleth is a standard based, open source software package for
web single sign-on across or within organisational boundaries. The Shibboleth Identify provider
integrates with an LDAP. The Identity Provider will be used for Access to the Africa Science
gateway by users in KENET network - KENET will be the Registration Authority (RA) for the
research community in Kenya. KENET has benefited from the ei4Africa FP7 project's arrangement
with CoMoDo (a provider of globally recognised certificates) with fee access to one certificate for
KENET and KENET member institutions as part of the project. KENET is using this free CoMoDo
wildcard certificate for all of its other applications (Websites, monitoring tools and email). KENET will
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now promote the use of official certificates by connected member institutions, not only for research
but also for their ERPs and Cloud-based applications.
Through UbuntuNet Alliance, KENET is a beneficiary under Africa Connect and Africa Connect 2
project.
8.3.2 Digital Inclusion Projects
8.3.2.1 Pasha Centres (Digital Villages)
In 2010, the government rolled out an initiative that will diffuse ICT know-how to the rural and
marginalized areas to address regional disparities. Entrepreneurs, who run Digital Villages, are
awarded loans in a competitive process, which they repay over a period of time. Pasha Centre’s as
the hubs are called, provide a host of services to the public via computers connected to the internet,
or by using and marketing other ICT-enabled applications.
Digital villages are e-centers that provide a suite of services to the public via computers connected
to the internet, digital cameras, printers, fax machines and other communication infrastructure.
These services include, but are not limited to e-mail, internet access, agency banking, e-banking,
for example, money transfer services such as Posta Pay, eGovernment, for example, police
abstract forms, tax returns, and driving license applications, ebusiness, for example, franchised
postal and courier services, e-learning, e-health, e-markets, for example, agricultural commodity
pricing and exchange and e-monitoring, for instance, real-time local level monitoring of development
funds and projects.
The main objective of the centres is to provide Internet access, e-government services and other
e-services at the grassroots level via public-private partnerships. The Pasha Centers have been
funded through Digital Villages Revolving Fund. So far, 61 Pasha centres are operational and more
are expected to be opened to at least cover every constituency
8.3.3 Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)/IT Enabled Services
Outsourcing has been identified in the Vision 2030 as a key pillar and driver of social and economic
improvement through job and wealth creation. The government has developed a roadmap that will
see Kenya take advantage of its unique geographical position and its well developed ICT human
resource base to become the preferred destination for outsourcing in Africa. The 2006 Kenya ICT
Strategy and the Vision 2030 development print created the framework for Kenya to focus on global
business process outsourcing as a way of generating jobs for young people and generating wealth
for local entrepreneurs and investors.
Given the importance of the ICT industry for creating growth and generating opportunities in Kenya,
especially among young people, and its growing contribution to GDP, the Government of Kenya is
keen to take up a focused enterprise development initiative in close collaboration with the private
sector.
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8.3.4 Local Content Programme
Over 50% of Kenyans now have access to the internet, majority of whom access the internet
through their mobile phone. As a result of this, the Government embarked on develop services and
products to reach these millions of Kenyans through this new media.
8.3.4.1 Tandaa Digital Content Grant
The Government ran a $4 million three-year grant program from 2010 - 2013 through the Kenya ICT
Authority to support the development of local digital content. Grantees are selected through an
Annual Call for Proposals.
The Tandaa Local Digital Content Grant was a grant to provide seed funding for companies entering
new media and ICT, to support Internet and mobile phone product and service delivery. Applicants
were required to be Kenyan citizens over eighteen or companies/organisations registered in Kenya.
Solutions could address rural or urban communities and awards can be granted from Private Sector
Innovation or Government Data Applications. Under the second round of grants, a new grant type
was available for established companies and the top 150 applicants will receive free business plan
training in Nairobi.
Tandaa Digital Content Grants were awarded to 14 companies and one individual under the First
Round in 2010 and 21 companies (50,000 USD), 8 individuals (10,000 USD) and one matching
grant (150,000 USD) under the Second Round (2011/2012).
8.3.4.2 Kenya open data
Kenya launched an open Government data portal in 2011 as the first country in sub-Saharan Africa
and second on the continent after Morocco. The goal of opendata.go.ke is to make core
government development, demographic, statistical and expenditure data available in a useful digital
format for researchers, policymakers, ICT developers and the general public. The online portal was
re-launched in July 2015, with an improved user experience and more timely and diverse data. By
November 2015, 31 out of a total of 262 agencies had submitted their data to the portal since
inception in 2011.The number of datasets have increased from 680 to 692 since the launch of the
new portal.
8.3.5 Information Security
In order to address cybersecurity challenges at national level, the Ministry of Information,
Communication and Technology in cooperation with the ICT Authority launched the National
Cybersecurity Strategy 2014 in June 2014. The Framework incorporates the National Cybersecurity
Strategy, National Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and the Kenya Computer Incidence Response
Team, Coordination Center (KE-CIRT/CC).
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8.3.6 Other Initiatives
8.3.6.1 Konza Technology Park
As part of the Vision 2030 Flagship Programmes, the Government of Kenya through the Ministry of
Information and Communication aims to set up a technology park at Konza. This project
commenced in 2009 with the procurement of a 5,000 acre site, 60kms south east of Nairobi. The
ground breaking ceremony was held by H.E. Mawi Kibaki on 23 January 2013. It is anticipated that
the first phase of Konza City will create over 17,000 direct and indirect jobs. It is planned that the
Tech city will host a BPO park, Science park, Convention centre, mega mall, hotels, international
schools, world class hospitals, Championships Golf Course, Financial District, High Speed Mass
Transportation and Integrated Infrastructure.
The main objective of developing an ICT park is to enable to job creation as well as being an
avenue to provide the necessary environment to attract investment. It is part of a wider scheme to
position Kenya as the region’s technology hub, using development to entice more companies to set
up base in the country. The park also aims to facilitate business activity within and outside the
country, reinforce efficient linkages between the private and public sector, promote the acquisition
and usage of ICT in the country and promote good ICT governance.
A Cabinet Committee of participating Ministries responsible for Water, Energy, Power and Lands
was put in place by H.E. the President to fast track the development of Phase 1 that runs from 2014
to 2018. The Government officially commissioned the Phase 1 infrastructure construction on 14
December 2014. The first phase will involve construction of BPO Park, Science Park, Residential
Buildings, data Centre and part of Central business District. The legal notice on the establishment of
Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KOTDA) and the board were gazetted and
operationalised.
8.3.6.2 ICT Hardware
ICT hardware is a very important component of ICT infrastructure and a pre-requisite to any
meaningful deployment of ICT services to the population. Unfortunately, they have to be imported
and until recently, imported hardware parts were not subject to any fiscal concessions. Currently,
the taxes on ICT hardware are largely zero-rated. Zero-rated taxes on ICTs are integral to the
Government policy objective of universal access to affordable ICT services.
The Government will set up National ICT Centres of Excellence to develop a critical mass of human
resource required to support capacity for the industry.
8.3.6.3 ICT Software
The Government is currently holding negotiations with various ICT software providers with a view to
securing bargains that will make ICTs affordable and universally accessible. In addition to providing
fiscal concessions on software, the Government will also promote local software development by
encouraging a scheme to ensure that at least 50 percent of Government software procurement is
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sourced from local software developers. The Government will also encourage software
multinationals like Microsoft and Oracle to offer special incentives such as free development tools,
training, certification and marketing support to local software developers.
8.3.6.4 eGovernment
The launch of e-Government services in Kenya is one of the main priorities of the Government of
Kenya towards the realization of national development goals and objectives for Wealth and
Employment Creation, as outlined in the Kenya Vision 2030. The e-Government Programme was
launched in June 2004. It has since committed itself towards achieving an effective and operational
e-Government to facilitate better and efficient delivery of information and services to the citizens,
promote productivity among public servants, encourage participation of citizens in Government and
empower all Kenyans.
Some of the key online services available through the e-government initiative include:
Application of public service jobs online
Tacking statutes of ID and passports
Exam results and candidate selection
Submission of tax returns
Custom services
Reporting of Corruption
Business licensing e-registry
Other ongoing e-government projects include:
Government shared services
Government Data Centre
Community Learning Information Centres
County connectivity project
Interactive Voice Response System
Government unified messaging system
Capacity building
8.3.6.5 Skills Programmes
In terms of Skills Programs, Kenya ICT Authority is working with Carnegie Mellon University in
relation to the Chipuka Software Development Certification, which tests the ability of developers to
write and execute code based on skills used in IT companies. This project aims to train 500
developers per year.
On 24 January 2013, the Kenya ICT Authority launched the first government supported ICT
Incubation Program on behalf of the Ministry of Information and Communications, with funding of
$1.6 million from the International Development Association of the World Bank as part of the Kenya
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Transparency and Infrastructure Project. The host incubator was selected through a competitive call
and was awarded to NaiLab. Nailab provides a 3 – 6 months entrepreneurship program, mentorship
and facilities to support ICT start-ups. During 2014 two batches of ICT start-ups were incubated with
a target to incubate at least 30 start-ups across Kenya by 2016.
8.3.6.6 Digital Learning Programme (DLP)
The Digital Learning Programme70 (DLP) was initiated by the Government of Kenya in 2013. The
programme is targeting at learners in all public primary schools and is aimed at integrating the use
of digital technologies in learning. The Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology
(ICT) is the main driver of the programme with the implementing body being ICT Authority. The
programme will be executed through a multi stakeholder approach. The cost of The first phase of
the project is expected to deliver 1.2 million devices in the next two years to cover all public primary
schools. The pilot phase of 150 schools is planned for September, 2015. The key components of
the programme are:
Provision of digital devices for both learners and teachers.
Capacity development for teacher and implementers
Broadband connectivity devices
Provision of content for digital learning.
Establishment of local assembly for digital devices and related accessories.
8.3.6.7 National Optic Fibre Broadband Infrastructure (NOFBI)
The ICT Authority is implementing Phase 11 of the National Fibre Optic cable, which is expected to
be complete by June 2016. This phase will build 1,600km of fiber linking all the 47 county
headquarters. This is in addition to the existing 4,300km of NOFBI I completed in 2009. NOFBI
Phase 1 is already in use in the national government, Telkom, Safaricom, Jamii Telecom and
KENET utilizing more than 3,000km of the cable.
8.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
8.4.1 National Priorities
To address the macroeconomic and social challenges and achieve the transformation to a
knowledge-based economy, priority sectors in which ICT will be integrated to solve societal
challenges have been identified.
The National Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Sector priorities outlined in the Media Term
Plan for 2013 - 2017 are:
Nanosciences, Material science, and New Product Technologies
Space Science
70 http://digischool.icta.go.ke/
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Energy
Biotechnology and Biosciences
Telecommunications, Electronics and Computers (TEC)
Natural products and Indigenous Knowledge
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Education
Coordination of Technology, Innovation and Commercialisation
National ICT Research Priorities include: Network Design, Trustworthy ICT, Intelligent Information
Management, Technology-Enhanced Learning, Wireless Technology and Mobile Applications,
Digital Libraries and Digital Content, Open Source Technologies, eHealth, Remote Sensing and
GIS, ICT for Agriculture and eTourism.
8.4.2 National Research Capacity
The table below provides an overview of universities with ICT/Engineering Courses:
Institution Location Total Students
ICT/Engineering Department(s)
ICT/Engineering Teaching Staff
Undergraduate Students
Post-Graduate (Masters, PhD)
University of Nairobi
Nairobi 58,188 School of Mathematics School of computing and informatics School of Engineering
45,466 12,000
Kenyatta University
Nairobi 44,778 School of Engineering & Technology
59 38,514 6,264
Moi University Eldoret 30,694 School of engineering School of information Sciences
10 28,851 1,843
Egerton University
Nakuru 13,842 Faculty of Science Faculty of engineering and Technology
12,332 1,510
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology
Juja 23,200 Civil engineering & geospatial engineering Electronic and information engineering
29 20,499 2,701
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology
Kakamega 8,425 Faculty of Science Faculty of Engineering
7,865 560
Maseno University
Kisumu 8,444 School of Science School of
7,166 1,278
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Computing and Informatics
Multimedia University of Kenya
Nairobi 1,491 Faculty of computing and IT Faculty of Engineering
1,491 0
Technical University of Mombasa
Mombasa 2,419 The Faculty of Engineering and Technology
2,419 0
Technical University of Kenya
Nairobi 3,644 Faculty of engineering and built environment Faculty of applied sciences and Technology
3,644 0
Dedan Kimathi University of Technology
Nyeri 3,774 School of engineering School of Computer Science and Information Technology
3,651 123
Meru University of Science and Technology
Meru 1,359 Department of Communication and Information Technology Department of Science, Mathematics & Engineering
1,359 0
South Eastern Kenya University
1,347 School of Information and Communication Technology School of Engineering and Technology
1,289 58
Strathmore University
Nairobi 4,829 Faculty of Information Technology
12 2,273 335
United States International University
Nairobi 4,534 School of Science and Technology
10 3,809 725
Mount Kenya University
Thika 7,800 School of pure and applied sciences
7,265 535
Catholic University of East Africa
Nairobi 6,247 Faculty of Science
5,717 530
Kenya Methodist University
Meru 9,666 Faculty of Computing and Informatics Faculty of Science and Technology
8,815 851
Daystar University
Nairobi 3,747 School of Science, Engineering
2,900 847
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and Health
University of Eastern Africa-Baraton
Nandi 2,200 School of science and Technology
2,065 135
KCA University Nairobi 6,400 Faculty of Computing and Information Management
21 6,200 200
The following universities and research centres are currently involved in ICT research in Kenya
University of Nairobi71
Departments include: School of Mathematics, School of Computing and Informatics, School
of Engineering, FabLab
Research areas include: Technology-Enhanced Learning, eHealth, Mobile Telephony
applications, eAgriculture, eGovernment, Cloud Computing, CyberSecurity, Interoperability
Funding agencies include: Google, Nokia, IDRC, World Bank, University of London,
Rockefeller Foundation, Ford Foundation, Centre for Disease Control (CDC), NCSTI
Strathmore University72
Departments include: Faculty of Information Technology, @iLabAfrica
Research areas include: Mobile Computing, Technology-Enhanced Learning & mLearning,
eHealth, Machine Learning and Intelligent Systems, Open Source Technologies, ICT for
Sustainable and Renewable Energy, eAccessibility, Intellectual Property and Information
Technology Law, Applied Research in Mathematical Sciences
Funding agencies include Hewlett Packard, The Internet Society, Google and Safaricom
@iLabAfrica has extensive relationships in place with industry (Safaricom, Vodafone,
Ericsson, Samsung, Google, Deloitte Consulting), foundations (Clinton Health Access
Initiative, IDEA Foundation) and universities (IT University of Copenhagen, MIT, Moi
University, Egerton University, Mombasa Polytechnic, JKUAT and Mbabara University,
Uganda).
Moi University73
Departments include: School of Engineering, School of Information Sciences
Research areas include: Parallel Computing / Cloud Computing, Software & Services,
Advanced Data Mining & Machine Learning, eHealth, Sustainable Agriculture &
Environment, eGovernment, Technology-Enhanced Learning
Cooperation Agreements include with VLIR, Belgium
Egerton University74
Departments include: Faculty of Science, Faculty of Engineering & Technology
71 http://www.uonbi.ac.ke/ 72 http://www.strathmore.edu/ 73 http://www.muk.ac.ke/ 74 http://www.egerton.ac.ke/
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Research areas include: Parallel Computing / Cloud Computing, Technology-enhanced
Learning, Dam Monitoring System, County online Databank, BPO, VIdeo Conferencing
Project
Funding agencies include KVSA (Dam Monitoring project) and RUFORUM (eLearning
project)
Kenyatta University75
Departments include: School of Engineering & Technology
Research areas include: Technology-enhanced Learning, Mobile Applications,
eGovernment, Cloud Computing, Software & Services
Maseno University76
Departments include: School of Science, School of Computing and Informatics
Research areas include: Parallel Computing / Cloud Computing, Software & Services,
Advanced data mining and Machine Learning, Mobile Applications
Kenya Methodist University77
Departments include: School of Computing
Research areas include: eHealth, Technology-enhanced Learning, Open Source Software
Applications, Mobile Telephony Applications
Recent projects include: eHealth project (June 2011 - June 2014), eLearning project (June
2010 - June 2012), Open Source Software applications project (2011 - 2013), Mobile
telephony applications (June 2011 - June 2014)
KCA University78
Departments include: Faculty of Computing and Information Management
Research areas include: System dynamics simulation modelling, software process
improvements, Requirements engineering, decision support systems, mobile computing
United States International University79
Research areas include: Information Systems
Current ICT-related projects: eMoney for enhancing MDGS at bottom of the pyramid
(Funding from Institute for Money, Technology & Financial Inclusion (IMTFI), University of
California, Irvine - USD15,000); eBanking, Open Source Learning Applications, Agribusiness
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology80
Departments include: Civil Engineering & Geospatial Engineering, Electronic and Information
Engineering
75 http://www.ku.ac.ke/ 76 http://www.maseno.ac.ke/ 77 http://www.kemu.ac.ke/ 78 http://www.kca.ac.ke/ 79 http://www.usiu.ac.ke/ 80 http://www.jkuat.ac.ke/
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Research areas include: eAgriculture, Agri-food based applications, eAgriculture Farmer
Voice Radio (FVR) project, Open Source Software Application, Cyber Security,
Interoperability
Funding institutions include America Institutes for Research (AIR)
Technical University of Mombasa (TUM)81
Departments include: Faculty of Engineering & Technology
Research areas include: Mobile Applications, Parallel Computing / Cloud Computing,
Software & Services
Technical University of Kenya (TUK)82
Departments include: Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment, Faculty of Applied
Sciences and Technology
Research areas include: Mobile Applications, Parallel Computing / Cloud Computing,
Software & Services
Multimedia University of Kenya83
Departments include: Faculty of Computing & IT, Faculty of Engineering
Research areas include: Communication Technologies
Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DKUT)84
Departments include: School of Engineering, School of Computer Science and Information
Technology
Research areas include: Computing, Software and Services, Networks
Meru University of Science and Technology85
Departments include: Department of Communication and Information Technology;
Department of Science, Mathematics & Engineering
Research areas include: Computing, Software and Services, Networks
South Eastern Kenya University86
Departments include: School of Information and Communication Technology; School of
Engineering and Technology
Research areas include: Computing, Software and Services, Networks
81 http://www.tum.ac.ke/ 82 http://www.tukenya.ac.ke/ 83 http://www.mmu.ac.ke/ 84 http://www.dkut.ac.ke/ 85 http://www.must.ac.ke/ 86 http://www.seku.ac.ke/
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Kenya Agriculture and Livestock Research Organisation (KARLO)87
Research areas include: eAgriculture including Agri-food based applications; Sustainable
Agriculture; Sensors & RFID to monitor livestock and wildlife; Land management; Food
Security
Kenya Medical Research Institute88
Research areas include: eHealth, Open Source Software Applications
Projects include: East Africa Disease Surveillance Network project (EAIDSNET) funded by
East Africa Community and international partners, Strengthening data management for
HIV/AIDS vaccine trails project funded by Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in partnership
with Hewlett Packard
8.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders the following thematic areas are considered to be
important in the context of the ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Topics Partners
eHealth Health Information Systems/Electronic medical records; Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH); Early warning systems for transmittable diseases (e.g. malaria); Integrated surveillance system;
Kenya Medical Research Institute; Strathmore University; University of Nairobi (School of Computing); Moi University; Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology; USIU Africa (School of Science and Technology); Kabarak University
eAgriculture Agri-food based applications; Sustainable Agriculture; Sensors & RFID to monitor livestock and wildlife; Land management; Food Security; Disaster Risks
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology; Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation; Egerton University; USIU Africa (School of Business) ; University of Nairobi; Strathmore University; Moi University
Technology-enhanced Learning
Distance Learning; Personalised Learning; mLearning; Smart classrooms; Learning system to support disabled people & training for health professionals; Entrepreneurship
Strathmore University; USIS (School of Science and Technology); University of Nairobi (School of Computing); Technical University of Kenya (Department of Computer Science and Technology); Dedan Kimathi University of Technology
eGovernment Public Service delivery, mGovernment Moi University (Department of Information Technology); University of Nairobi (School of Computing);
87 http://www.kari.org/ 88 http://www.kemri.org/
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Strathmore University
8.4.4 Mapping to H2020 Themes
The initial mapping to Horizon 2020 Research areas is summarised below:
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Components and Systems Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) (Department of Computing, IT department, Telecommunication): Smart Systems
KCA University (Faculty of Computing and Information Management): Modelling of complex systems
University of Nairobi (School of Computing): Technologies for IoT, Modelling of complex systems
Strathmore University (@iLabAfrica ICT Research and Innovation Centre): Smart Embedded Components and Systems, Smart Integrated Systems
Advanced Computing University of Nairobi (School of Computing): Processor and System Architecture, Parallel Computing and Simulation Software
Strathmore University (@iLabAfrica ICT Research and Innovation Centre): Processor and System Architecture, Interconnect and Data Localisation Technologies
Moi University (Department of Information Technology): Parallel Computing
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) (Department of Computing, IT Department, Telecommunication): Simulation and modelling
KCA University (Faculty of Computing and Information Management): Simulation software
Future Internet KCA University (Faculty of Computing and Information Management): Networks, cyber security
Strathmore University (@iLabAfrica ICT Research and Innovation Centre): Networks, Software and Services, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security
Moi University (Department of Information Technology): Software and services, cloud Computing
University of Nairobi (School of Computing): Software and services, cloud computing, Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust, Wireless Communication
KENET: Networks, Future Internet, Cloud Computing
United States International University (USIU)
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Content Technologies & Information Management
Moi University (Department of Information Technology): Advanced data mining and Machine Learning
Strathmore University (@iLabAfrica ICT Research and Innovation Centre): Machine Learning; Content Access and Analytics; Big Data Technologies; Advanced Data Mining
University of Nairobi (School of Computing) Machine Learning; Content Access and Analytics; Big Data Technologies; Advanced Data Mining
KCA University (Faculty of Computing and Information Management): Content Technologies and Information Management
Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health University of Nairobi (School of Computing/Medical School): eHealth, improved diagnosis, healthcare provision
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) (Department of Computing, IT Department, Telecommunication): eHealth, improved diagnosis
Strathmore University (@iLabAfrica ICT Research and Innovation Centre): health data collection, Healthcare Provision and Integrated Care
Moi University (Department of Information Technology): eHealth, Independent and assisted living, integrated health care
Kenya Medical Research Institute: Screening and management of diseases; Integrated health care
USIS Africa (School of Science and Technology): eHealth models, Early warning systems
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture Moi University (Department of Information Technology): Sustainable agriculture and Environment
University of Nairobi: Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture, Bio-Economy
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) (Department of Computing, IT Department, Telecommunication): Sustainable Agriculture and Forestry; Sustainable and Competitive Agri-food Sector for a Safe and Healthy Diet
Strathmore University (@iLabAfrica ICT Research and Innovation Centre): Sustainable Agriculture and Forestry; Sustainable and Competitive Agri-food Sector for a Safe and Healthy Diet.
USIS Africa (School of Business): Agri-business and
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Entrepreneurship
Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation: Agri-food based applications; Sustainable Agriculture; Food Security
Egerton University
Secure, Clean and Efficient Energy Strathmore University (@iLabAfrica ICT Research and Innovation Centre): Energy Efficient buildings, Alternative Fuels and Mobile Energy Sources
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) (Department of Computing, IT Department, Telecommunication): Smart metering, Robust Decision Making
University of Nairobi (School of Computing): Smart metering, Robust Decision Making.
Moi University
Smart, Green and Integrated Transport Strathmore University (@iLabAfrica ICT Research and Innovation Centre): Socio-Economic Research and Forward Looking Activities for Policy Making
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) - (Department of Computing, IT Department, Telecommunication): Smart Transport Equipment, Infrastructures and Services
University of Nairobi (School of Computing): Smart Transport Equipment, Infrastructures and Services; Innovative Transport Management Systems
Inclusive, Innovative and Reflective Societies
Strathmore University (@iLabAfrica ICT Research and Innovation Centre): Digital Inclusion; Social Innovation Platforms, eGovernment Services, eSkills, eLearning, eCulture
Moi University
Level of Research Maturity
Kenya has a vibrant research community and good track record in collaborative research with
participation in 69 projects and securing research funding of over € 12.3 million under FP7. Kenya
– like a number of other IST-Africa Partner Countries is actively trying to develop a national software
sector and attract Foreign Direct Investment, reinforcing the drive for innovation. The country is
positioning itself as a regional hub for East Africa, which is facilitated by Nairobi’s importance as an
airline hub.
During the first year of Horizon 2020, Kenyan organisations have secured participation in eight
Horizon 2020 projects across a number of thematic areas and two projects under ICT-39-2015
(mHealth4Afrika and ist4land).
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While the current primary focus is on technology adoption and developing applications, there is a
strong policy focus on further strengthening the research capacity within the country, and especially
in facilitating the continued development of post-graduate programmes and involvement in cross-
border research.
The research capacity of the institutions mentioned in this report was validated through a study
carried out during project activities. Template profiles were circulated to most of the public and
private universities and research organisations. This was followed up by email and telephone
communicatios for clarifications. A special focus was given to universities with well established
ICT/Engineering departments, postgraduate programmes and good research track record from
MOEST’s point of view. A case in point is University of Nairobi as a public university and Strathmore
as a Private University.
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9. KINGDOM OF LESOTHO
9.1 Introduction
The Kingdom of Lesotho is located in Southern Africa, an
enclave of South Africa. Lesotho has an area of 30,355
km, with 10 administrative divisions (Berea, Butha-Buthe,
Leribe, Mafeteng, Maseru, Mohale's Hoek, Mokhotlong,
Qacha's Nek, Quthing, Thaba-Tseka). The population as
at July 2015 was estimated to be 1.947 million89 with a
literacy rate of 79.4%. Sixty-two percent of the population
is between 15 and 64 years of age (median 23 years).
Maseru, the capital city, has a population of 267,000 (2014
CIA World Factbook). The official languages are Sesotho
and English.
Key sectors in Lesotho are agriculture, followed by
industry and services. Lesotho produces about 90% of its own electrical power needs. Economic
growth is dependant on manufacturing and services. Export partners include US, Belgium and
Canada.
Lesotho has developed a good policy framework. The ICT Policy was approved and adopted as a
working document in March 2005. The main driver of the ICT policy is the Ministry of
Communications, Science and Technology. The Universal Access Fund was established in 2009.
The Science Technology and Innovation Policy was reviewed in 2010 and proposed that an
Innovation Fund is established to support research and research capacity development. The
Communications Act 2012 became operational in April 2012.
In relation to Communications, according to the Lesotho Communications Authority (LCA) there
were 1.803 million telephone subscribers (mobile and fixed) with a teledensity rate of 96% in
2013/2014. Challenges in relation to Internet bandwidth costs and connectivity are being eradicated
by developments such as the arrival of the East and Southern African Optic Submarine Cable
System (EASSy) and the increasing adoption of converged technologies such as Wireless Local
Area Networks (WLAN), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) Worldwide Interoperability for
Microwave Access (WiMAX) and Third Generation (3G) High-Speed Downlink Packet Access
(HSDPA). The introduction of 4G Long Term Evolution (LTD) services will support high-speed
mobile broadband Internet access. While there has been an increase in Internet cafes they are
primarily in urban areas with 40% in Maseru. There has been a gradual increase in mobile
89 CIA Factbook
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broadband usage. Lesotho currently has two mobile telecoms providers – Econet Telecom Lesotho
and Vodacom Lesotho, which both provide a similar level of 2G and 3G voice coverage.
In terms of ICT Infrastructure, Lesotho is a participant in EASSy, through a Special Purpose Vehicle
(SPV) and the West Indian Ocean Cable Company (WIOCC). The cable went live in July 2010 and
provides direct access to high-speed bandwidth for broadband services. The introduction of the
WASACE cable also provides more options. As a result of these developments, internet bandwidth
prices are going down and mobile data services are being more affordable.
As part of the Universal Access Fund, the Lesotho Communications Authority (LCA) is supporting
the establishment of the Internet Exchange Point in Lesotho (LIXP). Since the creation of LIXP, LCA
is in a position to ensure that all internal Internet traffic is handled within Lesotho. The LIXP project
has helped address the issue of connectivity with the international bandwidth challenges. To help in
this respect, LCA has a partnership with Afrinic. The data centre hosts the LIXP facilities and the
infrastructure for the management of the country Top-level domain (.ls).
In terms of national back bone and accessibility around the country Lesotho has mostly copper
cables and fibre optic cables to a certain extend and satellites where there are no cables.
There are one public university (National University of Lesotho), Lerotholi Polytechnic, Lesotho
College of Education, National Health Training Centre and a private university (Limkokwing
University of Creative Technology).
9.2 ICT Background
The Government of Lesotho in its endeavour to develop an ICT-based Information Society has put a
National Strategic Development Plan in place for 2013 - 2017. Its main goals in relation to ICT are
to improve the ecosystem and backbone infrastructure (require facilitation of access to high speed
broad band and access to basic ICT services throughout the country), to reach universal access
and widen ICT literacy, review the e-government strategy and plan to facilitate implementation,
facilitate smooth migration from analogue to digital, promote the growth of e-services, and develop
niche ICT sub-industries through FDI, research and development and enhance surveillance
capacity to deal with cyber security.
The ICT Policy, which was adopted in 2005, also has objectives that strongly support infrastructural
development including: Universally accessible advanced communications networks, provide and
sustain diffusion of ICT infrastructure for access to ICT services and products, encourage
infrastructure sharing among network operators to optimize scarce resources, create a favourable
investment environment for the private sector in the development of ICT infrastructures and endorse
competition in the ICT sector so as to increase customer choice, quality and affordability of services.
Lesotho’s ICT Policy identifies nine critical areas for the development of the country, namely;
ICT and supporting infrastructure
Education and human resource development
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Enabling legal and regulatory framework
Rapid delivery of ICT services to society
eGovernment
eCommerce
Health
Agriculture and Food Security
Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources
Gender and Youth
The proposed regulatory framework encourages the deployment of converged technologies, which
can be offered over existing networks using IP technology. The country adopted a technology
neutral approach in selecting appropriate, scalable technology needed to build robust
communications networks. Secondly, the policy seeks to encourage the expansion of the national
electricity grid in order to support the deployment of ICT infrastructure.
The Universal Access Strategy was developed in 2001 to support access to a range of services
(telephony, Internet, radio, television, postal services) across the country. In 2009, the Universal
Access Fund was established to provide access and connectivity to communications services in
unserved and underserved areas. Three new communications infrastructure projects were
completed by the Universal Service Fund (USF) to extend mobile network coverage to unserved
areas. The Fund also embarked on a Wireless Network Broadband project to provide broadband
internet access to communities, 44 schools and 29 health institutions in partnership with the
International Telecommunication Union (ITU). It further supported the operations of the Lesotho
Internet Exchange Point (LIXP) and acquired infrastructure for the national domain name registry,
which will be operated as a service under the LIXP
The Parliament passed the new Communications Act 2012 and it came into operation at the end of
April 2012. It is aimed at consolidating all pieces of primary legislation that preceded it and would
enable Lesotho to truly participate in the global information society.
The Communication Act (2012) provides for:
The establishment of the Universal Service Fund and thus addressing more areas of
communications other than just access;
The introduction of co-regulation and self-regulation within the broadcasting industry through the
establishment of the Broadcasting Dispute Resolution Panel (BDRP);
The introduction of competition management in the communications services markets. Better
regulation of market competition, interconnection agreements and anti-competitive practices
would ensure efficiencies and would result in higher quality services as well as lower
communication costs, and;
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The introduction of regulation of Postal Services by LCA. When regulated, postal services would
develop faster than at the present moment.
The Radio Frequency Spectrum Management Policy of 2014 replaces the Radio Frequency
Spectrum Policy of 2008. The LCA Board has extended the use of Industrial, Scientific and Medical
(ISM) frequencies beyond wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) and hotspots to incorporate
wireless mesh networks.
Many ICT projects were launched in the public and private sector including the Lesotho Government
Data Network (LGDN), IEC (2012 elections registration confirmation & results on Website,
‘campaigns’ on Social networks), World Vision (including Area Development Programs – emergency
relief), Lesotho Meteorological Services (Climate Action Intelligence, involves High Performance
Computer) and others (Postal, Traffic, Passports, Security).
9.3 Current ICT Initiatives and projects
The following section provides an overview of current ICT initiatives ongoing in Lesotho in the areas
of eLearning, eHealth and eGovernment.
9.3.1 eLearning / Technology-Enhanced Learning
The National ICT Policy makes references to the education sector and in this context Lesotho has
begun to take the necessary steps to promote higher levels of ICT access and usage in its
communities and education institutions. Two key projects in the school sector were the NEPAD
eSchools Demo Project and SchoolNet Lesotho. Which have highlighted how the use of ICT can
enhance education. There are also some private sector companies independently engaged in
making some technology accessible to schools at a price on the basis of leasing PCs to schools.
A recent study undertaken by the National University of Lesotho recommends the use of a Virtual
Laboratory in Lesotho High Schools. This project is pending funding.
9.3.1.1 NEPAD eSchools Demo Project
The New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) eSchools Initiative was a multi-country,
multi-stakeholder, continental initiative that aims to impart ICT skills to young Africans in primary
and secondary schools and improve the provision of education in schools through ICT applications
and the use of the Internet.
The first phase of the initiative was a demonstration project implemented by the private sector
partners. The objectives of the Demo Project were to:
Determine typical e-school scenarios and requirements in various circumstances in Africa
Highlight the challenges inherent in a large-scale implementation of the e-school programme
Monitor the effectiveness of multi-country, multi-stakeholder partnerships
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Determine best practice and exemplary working models for the large-scale implementation of
the initiative, which aims to equip more than 550,000 African schools with ICTs and connect
them to the Internet
Demonstrate the costs, benefits, appropriateness, and challenges of a satellite-based network
Demonstrate the costs, benefits, and challenges of ICT use in African schools
Lesotho was one of the 16 countries where the Demo Project was co-ordinated by a dedicated
country liaison person based at the Ministry of Education and Training. Oracle and Microsoft
supported the Demo Project in six Lesotho high schools by fitting each school with a lab comprising
approximately 20 PCs, a server and printer, and a media lab which in some instances included a
PC-based kiosk containing health information and satellite television access to education channels.
Teachers at the six schools received training and learners have subsequently used the PC labs in
the classroom.
Funding sources: Private sector partners
Geographic scope and time frame: National; ongoing
The SchoolNet Lesotho project has phased out and the schools continue to use the computers.
9.3.1.2 Pan African eNetwork – Tele-Education
This project aimed at providing tele-education services to 10,000 African students to undertake
Post-Graduate, Under-Graduate, PG Diploma and Diploma and skill enabling certification courses in
subjects such as Business Administration, IT, International Business, Tourism and Finance over a
5-year period in Indian Universities/Educational Institutions.
The National University of Lesotho through its outreach programme Institute of Extra-Mural Studies
(IEMS) is connected to Universities in India where students in Lesotho have access to lectures in
Indian universities. There have been regular tele-education services.
Funding source: Government of India
Geographic scope and time frame: National; ongoing
9.3.1.3 Promoting Learning and Teaching through ICTs in Schools (Microsoft Multipoint Server)
This project aims to provide learners with access to ICT in challenging environments where there is
a lack of electricity and computers in schools. It was initiated by a primary school teacher at
‘Mamoeketsi Primary School in Lesotho as part of their endangered indigenous plants project.
Learners were to collect indigenous plants at home and using parents' mobile phones, text the
teacher images and observations about the plants to build a database at school.
The project came to the attention of Microsoft and Dell. Mamoeketsi Primary School was provided
with a Microsoft MultiPoint server (as central control point for student desktops) and computers for
learners. The teacher is able to tailor her teaching to each child's individual ability and can monitor
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each child's progress from one central point. The learners are also taught how to upload their own
blogs as part of the learning experience.
Other teachers at Mamoeketsi Primary School have followed her example and classes are now
arranged in a different setting altogether for almost every subject. The teacher is now helping train
other teachers in Maseru and also going into the rural areas to show them how to use the software.
Funding source: Microsoft
Geographic scope: National; ongoing
9.3.1.4 Lesotho School Technology Innovation Centre (STIC)
STIC is a joint venture between Microsoft, the Government of Lesotho and other non-governmental
partners, headquartered at the Lesotho College of Education (LCE) in Maseru. It is focused on the
development and research of new educational approaches, classroom solutions and practice to
improve 21st century education and skills development outcomes in Lesotho. To date, 14 LCE
lecturers and over 900 local teachers have received teacher development training through the
Microsoft Partners in Learning programme. It is envisaged that in the future training sessions will
also be undertaken with school principals.
The centre provides quality ICTs for use in education and aims to support teachers to use ICT
solutions to effectively deliver curriculum and other relevant learning materials, processes and
pedagogies. The STIC provides a service to all higher learning institutions in Lesotho and also
supports professional development of pre and in-service teachers.
Funding: Microsoft, through SchoolNet SA
Geographical Scope and time frame: National; ongoing
9.3.1.5 Learning Hub Lesotho
Higher Life Foundation Lesotho (an initiative under Econet Telecom Lesotho) launched a Learning
Hub in Maseru in May 2014 to support MDG2 Universal primary education for all by 2015. The
offices in Maseru are close to four primary schools and 5 secondary schools (c2,700 students in
total). The hub has 15 desk top computers with connections to the Internet and a reading section
with educational and social materials. The hub is available to students and teachers from 9am to
5pm each day free of charge to undertake research and improve their digital skills.
Funding: Econet Telecom Lesotho, Higher Life Foundation Lesotho
Geographical scope and time frame: National; ongoing
9.3.1.6 National University of Lesotho THUTO
The National University of Lesotho has implemented a Learning and Collaborative Environment
called THUTO to facilitate course management (lecture notes, tests, quizzes and grades), forums
and chat rooms for students and teachers to discuss course related issues. THUTO incorporates
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tools for administration, assessment, communication, resource sharing and collaborative learning.
Staff members have been trained on available functionality.
Funding: University of Lesotho
Geographical scope and time frame: National; ongoing
9.3.1.7 Laptops to Lesotho Project (L2L)
The Laptops to Lesotho project is focused on raising funds to distribute OLPC XO laptops to
children in rural Lesotho, provide training, establish a LAN network to facilitate internet access and
translate materials into Sesotho. The L2L organisation is currently supporting 2 schools, by
providing 86 XO laptops, a generator system and associated training on usage, maintenance, repair
of the laptops and setting up the solar panels and using the generator. The solar panel in the school
is used to charge cell phones to help raise funds for the project, supplemented by a fund raising
concert per semester. The teachers have access to tools to support their math curriculum. The
project aims to expand to a third school during 2016.
9.3.2 eHealth
9.3.2.1 ICT village in Mahobong
This project aimed to provide training on the use of ultrasound technology to the health personnel of
the Holy Trinity Clinic in Mahobong to prevent deaths of mothers and children in the area
surrounding the clinic.
A training period was initially undertaken in early 2011 and trained 20 people. OCCAM, WINFOCUS
and Hospital of Lodi invited representatives from surrounding clinics to attend. A satellite
connectivity was put in place initially to facilitate personnel in Mahobong to refer to dedicated staff at
the Hospital in Lodi for second opinion and any other support needed. While training was
undertaken at St Joseph's Hospital, an ultrasound was not provided. Over time it was necessary for
the Holy Trinity Clinic in Mahobong to lend their ultrasound to the hospital.
The project was phased out as no follow on funding was available to support ongoing activities.
Funding source: The Ministry of Health of Regione Lombardia – Italy
Geographic scope: Mahobong, Leribe District; project completed
9.3.2.2 Electronic Medical Record
Electronic Medical Record (EMR), which is a computerized medical record, is created in a few
hospitals in Lesotho and as of 2011 none of them had a fully integrated system. Subsequently EMR
will be created in all hospitals in Lesotho. EMR systems will assist health care professionals to store
and share patient information across disciplines and across facilities. It will also provide timely and
efficient access to medical records without compromising patient privacy, and allows patients to
engage in their own health care.
Funding source: Millennium Challenge Account (MCA)
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Geographic scope and time frame: National and ongoing
9.3.2.3 Development of a web-based Social Welfare Routine Information System (SWRIS)
The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare of Lesotho (MOHSW) and specifically the Department of
Social Welfare (DSW) developed a routine information system for Social Welfare as part of setting
up a functional Monitoring and Evaluation system for the Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC)
response in Lesotho. The system consists of a data procedure manual for data collection and
reporting tools on services provided to OVCs at all levels. The frequency of data collection and
reporting varies from monthly, quarterly and annually depending on the indicators for which data is
collected and reported for purposes of Monitoring and Evaluation of the National OVC Program.
There are an estimated 220,000 OVCs and scores of other vulnerable children. Some require basic
services to enable them to lead near normal lives. In order to plan appropriately for these numbers
of disadvantaged children, there is need to know those that are receiving services and those that
are not. This can be best facilitated by developing a database on individuals receiving services and
the type of services they receive. In addition, there are destitute adults and elderly people being
provided with services and these too need to be captured.
DSW is in the process of designing, developing and adequately testing a web-based database
application that will enable it to collect and report relevant information for decision making and
service provision at all levels of its structure in responding to HIV and AIDS pandemic as per the
MOHSW and DSW strategic plans.
Funding source: The Global Fund Coordinating Unit - Lesotho
Geographical scope and timeframe: National and ongoing
9.3.2.4 Laboratory Information System
The Association of Public Health Laboratories (APHL) through a cooperative agreement with the
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Global AIDS Program (GAP) supported the
U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) by implementing a Laboratory
Information System (LIS). The goal of this class of software, which handles receiving, processing
and storing information generated by medical laboratory processes is to strengthen health system
capacity and services for HIV/AIDS.
Lesotho piloted its current LIS in four laboratories (Central, Mafeteng, Makoanyane and Scott) after
having assessed five of them.
There is a Health Management Information System underway which will include a central data
repository serving health centers, hospitals, district health management teams, and central levels,
where all health data can be stored and accessed. The system will include a dashboard to extract
integrated reports. Data quality will be assured by built-in computer tools and techniques to check
the reliability and accuracy of the data.
Funding Source: PEPFAR
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Geographic scope and timeframe: National and ongoing
9.3.2.5 Rx Solution
From 2008 Strengthening Pharmaceutical Systems (SPS) has been providing technical support to
the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MOHSW) by supporting the implementation of the Rx
Solution, an electronic information management program. SPS is assisting the country to move
towards a comprehensive, integrated patient management information system at hospital level. As
at January 2012, Berea hospital has fully implemented the system, and now patient information can
be tracked right from when the patient registers up until the dispensing point. This is a great
milestone as it will assist the GOL in its endeavour to appropriately manage patient information,
particularly of patients on ART, thus creating an enabling environment for improved management of
patients on ART.
Funding Source: USAID
Geographic scope and timeframe: National and ongoing
9.3.2.6 Pan African Network - Telemedicine
The tele-medicine facility, which is focused on training the nurses and doctors on daily basis, will
connect the Ministry of Health with health facilities around the world, while another system will be
connected to the State House to enable the Prime Minister to communicate with other Heads of
State. By January 2012 the infrastructure (satellite) has been installed in Teyateyaneng (T.Y.)
Hospital.
Funding source: Government of India and African Union
Geographic scope and timeframe: National and ongoing
9.3.4 eGovernment
9.3.4.1 Digital Broadcasting Migration
The Ministry of Communications, Science and Technology has invested M400 million in the process
of migrating from analogue to digital and it is in the first stage of implementation. The adoption of
digital broadcasting will enable consumers to benefit from improved reception quality, additional
programme channels and more efficient use of spectrum in the country. The Ministry of
Communications, Science and Technology setup a digital migration unit to take charge of the
migration process supported by the advisory committee and prepared the second draft of Lesotho
Digital Migration Policy in March 2014.
Funding source: Government of Lesotho
Geographic scope and timeframe: National and ongoing.
9.3.4.2 Lesotho Government Data Network (LGND)
This project was an expansion of the Lesotho Government Data Network to district capitals. LGDN
aims to connect all government offices in Maseru and in the other nine (9) districts to one network
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and data centre housed at Moposo House, the Ministry’s headquarters. This will help to significantly
reduce communications and data-sharing costs within government.
The main objectives were to:
Ensure a connected government and support for rolling out IFMIS and related applications at the
district level.
Provide a reliable and secure backbone infrastructure that will cater for current and future IT
needs of the government
Eliminate duplication, facilitate interoperability of systems and reduce cost by sharing common
network components across systems
Create a stable communications platform for all ministries/departments to utilize in the execution
of their citizen-centric operations
Strengthen collaboration between various tiers of government
Improved government service delivery to its citizens regardless of location by having access to
similar services and applications throughout the Kingdom
All ten districts have been interconnected, with more than 110 sites connected and all links with
4MBPS.
Source of funding: Lesotho Government
Geographic scope and timeframe: National and ongoing
9.3.4.3 Revamping of LGDN
This project run by the Department of ICT aims to upgrade the concentrator resources for the LGDN
project in order to correct the problems arising from the core. This will enable smooth operation of
LGDN project. This project started in 2014.
Source of funding: Lesotho Government
Geographic scope and time frame: National, started in 2014
9.3.4.4 Establishment of IXP
The Lesotho Communications Authority (LCA) initiated the establishment of the Internet Exchange
Point (IXP) in Lesotho in order to improve access speeds for Internet users, reduce cost since a
good proportion of traffic would be exchanged utilising local rather than international bandwidth. In
addition, the IXP would create revenue through new business opportunities by allowing easier
hosting of local domains and improved access speeds. To this end, the Universal Access Fund
(UAFC) set aside about M1.8 million towards the establishment of the IX.
Since the creation of LIXP, LCA is in a position to ensure that all internal Internet traffic is handled
within Lesotho. The LIXP project has helped address the issue of connectivity with the international
bandwidth challenges. To help in this respect, LCA has a partnership with Afrinic. The data centre
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hosts the LIXP facilities and the infrastructure for the management of the country Top-level domain
(.ls).
Source of funding: Universal Access Fund
Geographic scope and timeframe: National and ongoing
9.3.4.5 Utilities Sector Reform Project
This project, which is implemented by The Ministry of Finance and Development Planning,
addresses the infrastructure constraint in the implementation of Government of Lesotho's ongoing
private sector led development strategy. Specifically, the project was to seek to improve business
infrastructure such as electricity and telecommunication services, including provisions for Internet
connectivity in the future.
Source of funding: African Development Bank, European Commission
Geographic scope and timeframe: National, final stage
9.3.4.6 Broadband Policy Project
This project. which is managed by the Department of ICT, aims to formulate a Broadband policy that
will enable more accessibility/penetration. The project started in 2014 and the second draft of the
policy was completed.
Source of funding: ITU and Lesotho Government
Geographic scope and timeframe: Nation wide; ongoing (5 year period)
9.3.4.7 Broadband Wireless Network Project
This project focuses on:
1. Deployment of wireless broadband infrastructure for identified areas in Lesotho.
2. Development of ICT applications for Lesotho.
3. Training local experts on the operation of deployed wireless communication networks.
4. Development of national ICT broadband network plans for the entire territory of Lesotho that will
deliver free or low cost digital access for schools and hospitals, and for underserved populations in
rural and remote areas.
5. Development of an impact assessment report.
Funding: ITU
Geographic scope and timeframe: National and ongoing
9.3.4.8 Cyber Security Project
This project aims to develop and promote harmonized policies and regulatory guidelines for the ICT
market as well as build human and institutional capacity in the field of ICT through a range of
targeted training, education and knowledge sharing measures. Through this project, three national
experts were recruited to work with three international experts to facilitate two workshops in Maseru
whose aim was to transpose three SADC model laws into Lesotho laws.
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The model laws are:
a) Data Protection;
b) Electronic Commerce and Electronic Transactions, and
c) Computer and Cyber Crime
The workshops focused on building capacity and empowering stakeholders so that they could
contribute to the adaptation of the model laws. Based on the questionnaire which was completed
during the first workshop, the ITU experts were able to understand the need and context of Lesotho
concerning issues that the model laws are focused on addressing. The second workshop
incorporated work that was done by the expert teams to transpose model laws into the Lesotho
laws. The ITU also provided an expert mission to Lesotho to assess her readiness to establish a
national Computer Incident Response Team (CIRT). The mission consulted and interviewed key
stakeholders and also conducted multiple studies and research to gather facts regarding the
readiness of the country to establish a national CIRT. A national CIRT would become the focal
point for coordinating information flow, respond to cyber-attacks and offer solutions to Cyber
security incidents for the whole of Lesotho.
Funding: ITU through HIPSSA project “Support for Harmonization of ICT Policies in Sub-Saharan
Africa”
Geographical scope and time frame: National and ongoing until 2016
9.3.4.9 eGovernance Infrastructure Project
The project aims to enhance good governance through the deployment of an e-government
broadband infrastructure. The project aims to enhance coordination of public service delivery across
Ministries, key agencies and local governments. The project also aims to strengthen existing
Government data centers and portals and improve access to e-services for state building such as
automated administrative services including e-payroll; civil registration; e-health, e-procurement, e-
customs; and, revenue management
The project is composed of four components:
1. Core Network Infrastructure: Revamp core optic network and broadband access: optimise the
metropolitan core fibre and addition of core fibre from the two datacentres in Maseru to
Mohaleshoek where there will be a third data centre. This will be achieved through assistance by
the Lesotho Electricity Company (LEC). In the case of broadband access, 4 unserved areas have
already been selected and this in particular will be funded by Universal Access Fund.
2. Government ePortal: Architect and design the eGovernment portal commencing with 7 online
services.
3. Skills Development: Facilities for training and research: Negotiations have been made that the
facility training laboratory be placed at The Lerotholi Polytechnic where there will also be
professional capacity building programs.
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4. Strengthening data centres: Upgrading equipment and improving control in the data.
Funding: African Development Bank and Universal Access Fund
Geographic scope and timeframe: National; started in 2014 and will run to 2017
9.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
9.4.1 National Priorities
The Government of Lesotho through the Ministry of Communications, Science and Technology in
conjunction with relevant stakeholders in the ICT sector has identified the following priority
e-applications: e-Government; eHealth; eLearning; e-Commerce; eInfrastructure; Digital Content
and Digital Libraries; eAgriculture & Geographic Information Systems; and Internet Technologies.
In line with its National Science and Technology Policy, Lesotho sees the role of research and
development as a major activity that defines the critical agenda in the national system of innovation
and in the industrial and commercial transformation. R&D is critical in the production of new
knowledge, new materials, publications and new services. It is a critical tool towards promotion and
development of ICT in the Information Society by identifying needs and challenges that face the ICT
sector thus informing policies, programmes and projects.
In this context the following research priorities have been identified for Lesotho:
Research Priority: ICT for Government and e-Government
Research Objectives Research Areas
Facilitate the broadest possible access to
public domain information (2.1.4)
Speech Recognition and Text-to-Speech
for information access.
Access Networks using available e-
infrastructure such as GSM and PSTN
networks.
Web applications using indigenous
languages.
Free/libre and open source software
(FLOSS) utilization for e-government
solutions.
Promote the production of local ICT products
and services that reflect the needs, interests
and culture of the country. (cf. 2.2.4)
Web applications and information systems
for marketing and advertising the
government tourist attractions
Establish ICT public access points in places
such as post offices, schools, libraries and
rural health care clinics among others. (2.2.6)
Developing mesh networks for rural areas
Convergence of analogue and data
networks
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Paying attention to the special needs of
marginalized groups of society, including
women, youth, the disabled, disenfranchised
and the elderly. (2.2.6)
Speech recognition and text-to-speech for
the visually impaired and the elderly for
government services access.
Development of training methodologies for
people with special needs and the
marginalized.
Development of electronic and mechanical
devices for the people with disabilities.
Ensure that ICT infrastructure is widely
available at an affordable price to support the
delivery of telecommunications, broadcasting,
postal and multimedia services (2.2.7)
Software development cost reduction
through use of FLOSS
Improve internet access for tourists throughout
the country
Appropriate access points developed
throughout the country for tourists to have
internet access with the aim of attracting
more tourists into Lesotho
Research Priority: ICT for Health & e-Health
Research Objectives Research Areas
Ensuring that all local clinics and hospitals are
connected to the ICT infrastructure (2.2.7)
Convergence technology development for
interconnecting the PSTN, GSM and Radio
broadcast communication systems.
Developing web services and access
channels for remote patient diagnosis
Visibility studies on low cost ICT
infrastructure in the mountainous areas of
Lesotho.
Online HIV/AIDS information access for rural
communities
Web services for HIV/AIDS information in
Sesotho
Development of HIV/AIDS interactive
information stations at local government
offices using FLOSS
Online/Mobile Access to medical practitioners
and institutions
Development of mobile- and e-commerce
applications for service access
Research Priority: ICT for Learning & e-Learning
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Research Objectives Research Areas
One lecturer – multiple classrooms throughout
the country (IEMS can benefit from this
objective)
Optimization of Communication networks
for enabling distance e-learning
Use of mobile devices for teaching Software development for mobile devices
Cost effective methodologies of
implementation
Research Priority: ICT for Enterprises & e-Commerce
Research Objectives Research Areas
Private sector service access using both the
internet and mobile devices (e.g. banking)
Development of interactive web services
and WAP services
Online payments for electricity, water and gas Development of interactive web services
and WAP services
Promote the development and dissemination
of local ICT products and services (2.1.5)
Qualitative and quantitative studies for
assessing the research efforts and
innovation in the ICT sector throughout the
country.
Marketing strategies for local ICT products
and innovations
Online shopping (e.g. ordering pizza) Development of Mobile Commerce
Applications
Research Priority: Network Technologies
Research Objectives Research Areas
Develop network technologies suitable for
government service delivery in Lesotho
Study of existing infrastructure and
development of network protocols suitable
for ensuring access to government
information.
Mesh network development for rural areas
Wireless networks (WiMAX) capabilities for
enhancing the ICT infrastructure in
Lesotho.
Improvement of bandwidth for local Study of data and voice traffic and the
quality of service required for such traffic in
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information and services access order to effectively manage the bandwidth
9.4.2 National Research Capacity
The table below provides an overview of universities with ICT/Engineering Courses:
Institution Location Total Students
ICT/Engineering Department(s)
ICT/Engineering Teaching Staff
Undergraduate Students
National University of Lesotho
Roma, Maseru
1,357 Faculty of Science and Technology
12 266
Letotholi Polytechnic
Maseru 185 Dept of Engineering 7 185
Lesotho College of Education
Maseru Dept of Information Technology, Dept of Computer Science
Limkokwing University of Creative Technology
Maseru 462 Dept of Computer Technology
25 462
The following national organisations are currently undertaking ICT-related activities in Lesotho:
National University of Lesotho90
Dept of Mathematics and Computer Science
The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science in the National University of Lesotho has a
Computer Unit (CS Unit), which is responsible for research in ICT. The whole CS Unit functions as a
research group. Main research areas that the CS Unit explores are meant to improve government
services and also to bridge the digital divide in Lesotho. The three main areas of research in the CS
Unit are: (a) Communication Networks and Applications (CNA), (b) Artificial Intelligence and Human
Language Technologies (AI & HLT) and (c) Information Systems (IS). The university research grant
is the major source of funding for most projects.
Research focus includes: Communication Networks and Applications; Artificial Intelligence
and Human Language Technologies; Information Systems; Solar and Wind Energy, Energy
Efficiency
(a) Communication Networks and Applications
Research in this area includes:
Network Management and Services
Next Generation Networks & Services Development
o SIP-enabled instant messaging systems on IMS
o WiMax QoS on IMS
Mobile Commerce Applications
90 http://www.nul.ls/
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Mobile Advertising
Intelligent Networks for e-government
VoIP-based Computer Telephony Integration with Asterisk
(b) Artificial Intelligence and Human Language Technologies
Research in Artificial Intelligence in is the following areas:
Machine Translation (at early stages)
Speaker Recognition systems.
Sesotho Speech recognition for bridging the digital divide.
Text-to-speech in Sesotho for accessing government information and services.
Development of Voice Browsers (VoiceXML interpreters)
It is worth noting that the projects above are currently research projects and laboratory work by
individual researchers and have a very good potential depending on wider funding.
Lesotho College of Education
Depts include: Dept of Information Technology, Dept of Computer Science
Research focus includes: Technology-enhanced Learning
Limkokwing University of Creative Technology
Dept of Computer Technology
Research areas of interest includes: Cloud Computing,
9.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders the following thematic areas are considered to be
important in the context of the ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Topics Partners
eHealth / mHealth Health Information Management Systems / Electronic Health Records; Mobile First Aid system; Health Monitoring, Interoperability of systems; Systems supporting patients with TB and HIV
National University of Lesotho; Limkokwing University of CreativeTechnology; Ministry of Health
Technology -enhanced Learning
Indigenous knowledge systems using ICT; Technology integration in classroom; Creation of local digital content
National University of Lesotho; Limkokwing University of CreativeTechnology
eAgriculture Enhancing crop productivity; ICT for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development; Mobile Application for farmers; Water management & irrigation systems
National University of Lesotho; Limkokwing University of CreativeTechnology; Lesotho Agricultural College; Department of Agricultural Research (MoAFS)
eGovernment Public service delivery; Online application for student loans
National University of Lesotho; Limkokwing University of CreativeTechnology; MCST -
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Department of ICT
9.4.4 Mapping to H2020 Themes
The initial mapping to Horizon 2020 Research areas is summarised below
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Components & Systems Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (Faculty of Information and Communication Technology): Smart Embedded Components and Systems
Advanced Computing National University of Lesotho (Dept of Maths and Computer Science): IP-enabled Home Automation
Future Internet National University of Lesotho (Dept of Maths and Computer Science): Communication Networks and Applications (Network Management and Services, Next Generation Networks & Services Development), Mobile Management for the Future Internet, Cloud-based Communication Services, High Performance Computing
Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (Faculty of Information and Communication Technology): Cloud Computing, Networks, Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust, Wireless Communication and all Optical Networks, Interactive multimedia
Content Technologies & Information Management
National University of Lesotho (Dept of Maths and Computer Science): Human Language Technologies, Technology-enhanced Learning
Lesotho College of Education: Technology-enhanced Learning
Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health National Health Training Centre: Specific focus on Cancer and HIV
National University of Lesotho (Dept of Pharmacy and Nutrition): eHealth, Self-management of health, health data collection
Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (Faculty of Information and Communication Technology): eHealth; Self-management of health, improved diagnostics; health data collection, methods and Data
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture National University of Lesotho (Faculty of Agriculture): Sustainable Agriculture
Energy National University of Lesotho (Department of Mathematics and Computer Science): Solar Energy (Solar resource assessment – solar maps, Solar
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photovoltaic (PV), Solar thermal, Concentrated solar power); Wind Energy (Wind Resource assessment – wind mapping, Wind power); Hydro (Mini/micro/small hydros); Bio-energy (Bio-mass, Bio-gas); Energy Efficiency (Energy audits, Energy Management – demand side management, demand response, energy conservation, Smart Metering); Energy modelling
Inclusive and Reflexive Societies Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (Faculty of Information and Communication Technology): eLearning
Secure Societies Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (Faculty of Information and Communication Technology): Cyber Security
Level of Research Maturity
Lesotho is gradually increasing the focus on research. This is reflected on the Government’s
emphasis on innovation and technology adoption and the development of applications and local
content to service national requirements.
Being entirely surrounded by another country – and to a considerable degree economically reliant
on that country (with many people from Lesotho working and earning their living across the border)
brings its own challenges. This requires an increased policy focus on further strengthening the
research capacity within the country, and especially in developing post-graduate programmes. As a
result of IST-Africa training workshops in Lesotho, there is now a much higher level of awareness of
the necessity for research activities to have a clear socio-economic purpose, and the requirement to
focus on potential impact, and the potential benefits of multi-stakeholder research projects.
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10. MALAWI
10.1 Introduction
Malawi is situated in the southern part of the East African Rift Valley,
located between Mozambique in the east, Tanzania in the north and
Zambia in the west. It has a surface area of over 118,000 square km,
which consists of 28 administrative districts (Balaka, Blantyre, Chikwawa,
Chiradzulu, Chitipa, Dedza, Dowa, Karonga, Kasungu, Likoma, Lilongwe,
Machinga, Mangochi, Mchinji, Mulanje, Mwanza, Mzimba, Neno, Ntcheu,
Nkhata Bay, Nkhotakota, Nsanje, Ntchisi, Phalombe, Rumphi, Salima,
Thyolo, Zomba). The population is estimated to be in the region of 17.9
million (July 2015 CIA World FactBook) with an average yearly growth of
around 3.3 % and a GDP per Capita of 1,100 USD. Fifty percent of the
population are between 15 - 64 years of age, with a literacy rate of 65.8%.
The economy is heavily based on agriculture, with a largely rural
population of 80% mainly engaged in small holder farming. Lilongwe, the
capital city, has a population of 905,000 (2015). The official languages are
English and Chichewa, with other local languages also in use.
Malawi is among the world's least developed countries. The Government depends heavily on
outside aid to meet development needs and faces challenges in building and expanding the
economy, improving education, health care, environmental protection, and becoming financially
independent. The foreign policy is pro-Western and includes positive diplomatic relations with most
countries and participation in several international organisations. Natural resources include
limestone, arable land, hydropower, coal and bauxite.
In relation to Communications, according to 2014 figures (CIA World Factbook), there were 64,200
fixed phone lines in use compared with 5.1 million mobile phones and 387,500 Internet users.
In terms of ICT Infrastructure there is a submarine and terrestrial broadband network, a fibre cable
infrastructure connecting Malawi and Mozambique, an expanded fibre infrastructure inside the
country and a high level of mobile penetration. The Malawi Internet eXchange point became
operational on 04 December 2008 and was funded through start up equipment assistance from
KTH, Sweden through the College of Medicine Project. Tele centres were set up using ITU funding
through MACRA and MPC. The last mile connectivity project is part of the Regional
Communications Infrastructure Project (RCIP) and the University Access project is supported by the
World Bank. To encourage the use of ICT, the Government of Malawi has waived tax on the import
of computers and accessories.
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There are fifteen institutions of Higher Education: 4 public Universities (University of Malawi, Mzuzu
University, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources and Malawi University of
Science and Technology), 7 public Polytechnics and specialised Colleges and 4 private Colleges.
10.2 ICT Background
The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) was established pursuant to Section 3
of the Communications Act, 1998 of the Laws of Malawi to assume the regulatory functions of the
communications sector, which had been performed by the Malawi Telecommunications Corporation
Limited. The Communications Act has universal access, rural connectivity, liberalization, and private
sector involvement as key objectives.
MACRA implements ICT development Projects through project design, planning, monitoring and
evaluation of ICT Projects in liaison with different stakeholders including, the Ministry of Information
and Civic Education, rural communities, development partners (donors), and telecom operators.
MACRA is responsible for the implementation of Universal Access Programs, which are aimed at
addressing ICT access gap in the rural and remote areas of the country.
The Malawi’s Vision 2020 statement policy sets the conceptual parameters for subsequent policy
including National ICT policy (revised 2013) whose mission is to facilitate the creation of an enabling
environment for efficient, effective, and sustainable utilization, exploitation, and development of
ICTs in all sectors of the economy in order to attain an information-rich and knowledge-based
society and economy. This policy has a dual focus. It aims at developing the ICT industry and sector
and promoting the development and use of ICTs.
Given the benefits and opportunities offered by ICT, it is acknowledged that Malawi cannot
effectively forge ahead with its development agenda without putting an appropriate framework of
ICT in place to support and accelerate various national and sector initiatives and interventions at all
levels of society. The ICT Policy was adopted in 2005 to develop the ICT sector and promote the
development and use of ICTs focused on strategic ICT leadership, community access to ICTs and a
responsive ICT legal and regulatory framework. It also includes a commitment to universal access,
rural connectivity and liberalisation of the private sector involvement.
The ICT Policy aims to provide a direction as to how Malawi will turn the ICT potential into real
benefits for its people. It also aims to put an appropriate institutional, regulatory and legal framework
in place that should effectively support successful deployment and utilization of ICT in all sectors of
national development. It is crucial that strong public-private partnerships exist in implementation of
this policy. The Government will, therefore, continue to provide the right enabling environment for
both public and private sector participation in the development, deployment and utilization of ICT in
both urban and rural communities through initiatives such as Universal Access projects. It is hoped
that the policy will bring about organized and systematic ICT development and reduce ad-hoc,
fragmented and uncoordinated development and utilization of ICT.
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A lot of changes have taken place in the ICT sector since 2005 and this has prompted a revision of
the ICT Policy to include Universal Access Issues and other associated standards to make
recommendations for the adoption of the same. NCST was involved in the revision of the ICT Policy
and the updated ICT Policy was published in September 2013. The ICT Policy together with the
Malawi Digital Broadcasting Policy were both launched by the Vice President at the end of ICT
Week which ran from the 3rd to 8th December 2013. The Government recognises ICT as a priority
sector with the potential of turning around the economy. However, implementation of the ICT Policy
may be affected by low levels of ICT literacy and awareness, dependency on imported goods and
services, and competition for financial resources by other national priorities.
The Government of Malawi through the e-Government Department contracted consultants using
UNDP funding to develop a National ICT Master Plan. The plan is yet to be approved by the
Government Its overall objective is to implement the ICT policy. The plan spans the years 2014 to
2031, an eighteen-year duration which is split into four separate plans. The first plan is a three-year
plan for the period 2014 to 2016 whilst subsequent three plans span a five-year period each. The
plan has clustered the ten priority areas identified in the ICT Policy into four logical strategic pillars,
namely, Innovation and Human Capital Development, ICT Industry Development and E-Business,
ICT Infrastructure Development and eGovernment and Growth Sector Development.
The Digital Broadcasting Policy is a guide developed for the smooth transition from analogue to
digital television broadcasting. It entails segmentation of broadcasting services into content
production and signal distribution meaning that television broadcasters will be responsible for
content production and at the same time there is need for a separate entity to be responsible for
distribution of the television signals to the consumers / television viewers on behalf of the
broadcasters. Malawi has managed to meet the deadline set by ITU whereby all member countries
are supposed to migrate to digital from analogue by June 2015.
The Malawi Growth and Development Strategies (MGDs) were developed to provide a single
reference document for policy makers in Government; the Private Sector; Civil Society
Organizations; Donors and Cooperating Partners on socio-economic growth and development
priorities. The first MGDs ran from 2006 to 2011, second one ran from 2011 to 2016 and third one
runs from 2016 - 2021.
Within the MGDS, ICT and telecommunications fall under the theme of infrastructure development
and good governance whose long-term goal is to have a well-developed, affordable and efficient
telecommunications system accessible to those who need it. Key strategies for achieving this
include: developing a system that is conducive to business operations; and enacting appropriate
legislation that promotes interest of new entrants. Planning for the third MGDs (2016 - 2021) is at
the final stage which NCST spearheading the draft of the ICT Chapter.
The establishment of the National Commission for Science and Technology (NCST) was provided
for in the Science and Technology Act (No. 16 of 2003) to advance science and technology issues
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in Malawi. The National Research Council of Malawi and the Department of Science and
Technology were integrated to form NCST following a Cabinet Directive of 20th October 2008.
NCST principally provides advice to the Government and other stakeholders on all matters related
to science and technology in order to achieve a science and technology-led development. It derives
its authority from the Minister responsible for Science and Technology to ensure that it reaches out
to the highest levels and all sectors of social and economic development in the country.
The Government sees the establishment of the Commission as a key strategy for enhancing the
development and application of Science & Technology in its development endeavours in order to
accelerate the socio-economic development of the nation and improve the quality of life of its
people. NCST’s mission is to regulate, support, promote and coordinate the development and
application of Science, Technology and Innovation so as to create wealth and improve the quality of
life.
There are a number of ICT-related challenges facing Malawi, which include:
“Brain drain” in the ICT sector due to low remuneration (essentially, brain-drain takes place at
two levels: from Malawi to other countries especially within the SADC region, and from the
public sector to the private sector).
Inadequate institutional capacity at national, sectoral, and organisational levels.
Negative attitude towards technology change.
Human and financial resource constraints to the development of the ICT sector such as ICT
infrastructure, high cost of telecommunications, and unstable and unreliable power.
Outdated laws that support ICT development, deployment, and utilisation.
Proliferation of sub-standard ICT schools, syllabi, and service delivery.
Underdeveloped research and development capacity in ICT
Lack of a national research agenda to provide a road map for research activities
10.3 Current ICT initiatives and projects
ICT Initiatives are currently ongoing at national level in the area of eGovernment (eGovernment
Programme, Electronic Legislation), Education and eLearning (Computers for African Schools
Malawi, Pan African eNetwork), eInfrastructure (Regional Communication Infrastructure project,
Malawi Sustainable Development Network Programme, MACRA Infrastructures projects, Malawi
Research and Education Network, ESCOM Fibre Optic project), Digital Repositories (Malawi Library
and Information Consortium, National Digital Repository), eHealth and eBanking.
10.3.1 eGovernment Programme
An eGovernment programme has been conceptualised as part of the Malawi Information and
Communications Technology (ICT). The overall aim is to promote the country’s socioeconomic
development, supporting the aspirations of Vision 2020, with priority being given to ICT activities
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contributing to poverty reduction. The eGovernment element focuses on the modernisation and
improved efficiency of public services. Specific strategies have been designed to:
Improve productivity, efficiency, effectiveness and service delivery through institutional and
organisational reforms
Modernise the public service through the development and utilisation of ICT to support its
operations and activities
Promote e-government through government to-government, government-to-business, and
government-to-citizens initiatives
Promote the use of ICT to facilitate the decentralisation of government services and operations,
and support the delivery of business and government services in rural areas
Improve the basic skills of public officers by ongoing training
Develop and enforce standards and best practice to guide the delivery of services to the public.
With funding from the Chinese Government of about USD135 million, the Department of
eGovernment is implementing a number of ICT projects in the country over a 4 to 5 year period from
2013. The projects include establishment of a data centre, provision of e-services such as e-
immigration, e-national registration and identification system, sharable geographic information
system, electronic document management system, e-Learning platform for the public sector,
enhanced electronic communication systems, electronic marketing systems and electronic security
systems.
Some of the software systems and applications undertaken within the e-Government initiative
include a computer based Integrated Finance Management System (IFMIS), funded by the World
Bank which aims to provide timely and accurate financial information while enforcing standardised
integrated financial management reporting system for government Ministries and departments. The
Payroll and Human Resource Management System purchased by the Government aims to overhaul
the locally developed government establishment, personnel, payroll, pensions, loans management
(PPPAI) that was initiated in 1998-99. Tithe Road Traffic Department’s Traffic Management
Information System (MalTIS) facilitates motor vehicle registration, issuing of driving licences and
road permits.
The Malawi Immigration Department has also introduced a computer based system machine
readable passport issuing system which is a fully integrated turnkey passport issuing system
incorporating state-of-the-art biometric enrolment, issuing software, and Toppan digital passport
printers. In addition, the Department has launched a new ICT innovation border control system in at
its international airports, called the Integrated Border Control System, as part of its objective for
computerise all its border posts.
Source of funding: Malawi Government, China and other development partners
Geographic scope and timeframe: National, Phase 1 2008 - 2013, Phase 2 2013 - 2017
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10.3.2 Electronic Legislation Project
An eLegislation project is currently being funded under RCIP aimed to set up a responsive ICT
Legal framework to facilitate competition, development and participation of Malawi in the Information
Society and more particularly the legislation, among others, purports to
(a) ensure that the development, deployment and exploitation of ICT within the economy and
society and related legal provisions shall balance as well as protect community and individual
interests, including privacy and data protection issues;
(b) address ethical issues in the use of ICT to protect the rights of children and the under-privileged;
(c) define favourable tax policies that promote ICT products and services that originate from within
Malawi and provide a responsive and efficient regulatory environment, promote economic
subsectors, assets accumulation and tax activities that arise from ICT use. A draft Bill is
currently in place.
The Government expects to create an adequate, enabling and favourable environment for
information and Communication Technology (ICT) users by developing an electronic legislation,
which awaits input from institutions prior to passing it into law. The focus area includes 'legal
recognition of electronic messages', which the Bill acknowledges does not exist in the current legal
framework. The Bill also addresses issues of protecting the public from cybercrime, eWaste and
maintaining a secure space where data and intangible money could be stored, shared and legally
and securely transferred. The Bill also has a provision for the establishment of Malawi CERT to lead
in cybersecurity. The Data Protection Bill component provides security for electronically formatted,
personal information. A draft Bill is finalized awaiting its review and cabinet approval.
Source of funding: World Bank
Geographic scope and timeframe: National, to be enacted from 2013, ongoing
10.3.3 Education and e-Learning projects
The Malawi ICT policy includes the promotion of ICTs in education systems at all levels in order to
improve both the access and the quality of education, improve management of education systems
and improve ICT literacy. It also has a few innovative initiatives in this area, committed largely to the
promotion of integrated library and information services and networks. Both public and academic
libraries have embarked on projects to implement integrated library management systems using
open source softwares such as Koha and Dspace.
The Computers for African Schools Malawi has been active for the past decade. It incorporates
academic and business representatives and is implemented by the British Council and Ministry of
Education. It provides ICT training to teachers, provides computers and printers to schools and
develops the ICT Curriculum for schools.
Source of funding: Malawi Government, British Council, India and other development partners
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Geographic scope and timeframe: National, 2005 - 2010
10.3.3.1 The Pan African eNetwork
An example of an e Learning initiative is the Pan African eNetwork, a Tele education connectivity
which enables 5 African regional leading universities including the University of Malawi (Chancellor
College) to be connected to a hub through satellite to 53 remote virtual classes distributed in all the
53 countries. Seven universities from India are connected via IPLC to the Hub located in Africa.
India hosts the Tele education LMS portal comprising the University Tele-Education delivery system
software that incorporates the e-learning, content management KMS (knowledge Management
System) and digital library solutions. This project provides eServices with a priority on tele-education
and telemedicine in order to build capacity. The Government of India has established the eNetwork
through 3 centres in Malawi - eLearning at Chancellor College, Telemedicine at Kamuzu Central
Hospital and e-VVIP at the State House. Free technical support is provided for five years as part of
the project.
There are plans for Chancellor College to provide its own tele-education progammes based on the
experience and lesssons learnt from the Pan African eNetwork.
Source of funding: Government of India, Government of Malawi
Geographic scope and timeframe: Zomba and Lilongwe, 5 years [2009 - 2015]
10.3.4 The Regional Communications Infrastructure Project (RCIP)
RCIP is a Government of Malawi led intervention in the ICT sector, which aims to support policy and
legislative reforms and to provide affordable Internet capacity to the nation.
The project is being funded by the World Bank and aims at facilitating the provision of a wet portion
(submarine cable) solution to dry portion (overland) connectivity to eligible countries. It is managed
by the Privatisation Commission, in partnership with MACRA and the eGovernment Department.
Under the Enabling environment activity, the project intends to review the Communication Act of
1998; build capacity amongst its agencies especially those involved in the policy and regulatory
supervision of the ICT sector.
By September 2013, the Last Mile Connectivity Initiative, which is the third phase of the project
was implemented. The initiative saw 145 sites being connected against a target of 100 and these
included Teachers Development Centres, Teachers Training Colleges, District and Regional
information offices. The second phase of the project, which was completed by November 2013
saw the provision of Internet connectivity, terminal equipment, ICT equipment to all 30 District and
Regional Information Offices in the country.
The project came into completion in December 2015 when the construction of the international
optic fibre network and delivery of internet capacity to the VLP at Capital Hill was finalised.
Government through the Ministry of Information, Toursim and Civic Education intends to launch
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the delivery of this infrastructure which will reduce the costs hampering internet access to
broadband in the country during 2016.
The Malawi Government obtained a loan from the International Development Association (IDA)
towards the cost of the RCIPMW project.
Source of funding: World Bank, Government of Malawi
Geographic scope and timeframe: National, 2009 - 2015
10.3.5 Malawi Sustainable Development Network Programme (SDNP)
This was a pioneering UNDP funded project that implemented the provision of Internet services in
the country. SDNP was put in place to help countries implement Agenda 21 by facilitating access to
information about sustainable development and also encouraging participation in decision making
for sustainable development. SDNP started its operations in the 1990’s and at the moment it is
being hosted by the National Commission for Science and Technology after UNDP stopped funding
its operations in 2011. Currently plans are underway to have SDNP registered as a company limited
by guarantee with NCST as one of the Directors.
SDNP has enhanced the capacity of stakeholders to use computer mediated communications,
including the Internet. This has been done through training and the provision of equipment to
encourage users to connect.
Furthermore, the project has helped to enhance the capacity for open and participatory decision
making processes, and strives to have a role in encouraging local and community based
involvement in sustainable development.
Some of the SDNP services include: Full Internet Services, Installations and Maintenance, World
Wide Web Services, Leased Line Access, Wireless network access, Domain Name Services,
Domain and Subdomains registration, Gateway Service and the IPv4 and IPv6.
Source of funding: UNDP, National Government
Geographic scope and timeframe: National, 1990-2011
10.3.6 MACRA Infrastructures Projects
Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) is implementing telecommunications
infrastructure development through the establishment of tele-centres in several rural areas of the
country through ITU’s, World Bank, MACRA and Malawi Post Office support. The majority of
Malawians (about 80%) live in the rural areas where access to basic ICT services is not readily
available therefore the implementation of the ITU/MACRA/MPC tele-centre project has brought
great enthusiasm and uptake of ICT services to the extent that the Government of Malawi is
embarking on a “Connect a Constituency” Project to make sure that there is at least one
Multipurpose Community Telecentre (MCT) in each constituency. Fifty-six tele-centers were
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established from 2010 – 2013. This will help in the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals
(MDGs) as people will have access to ICT enabled applications i.e. e-education, e-agriculture, e-
health etc. Malawi is ensuring that it puts in place enabling policy, legal and regulatory framework to
ensure provision of affordable and accessible ICT services to its citizens especially those in the rural
areas.
Additionally Malawi has benefited under the ITU disaster relief through ITU satellite phones
provided for emergency communication services in the flood-hit districts. The assistance has gone a
long way in facilitating easier access to the affected people and providing for their immediate needs.
This is due to the anticipated rainy season that causes severe flooding especially in the southern
part of Malawi. ITU also paid for the airtime.
MACRA is undertaking research with Chancellor College in relation to the potential uses of TV
White Spaces.
10.3.7 Malawi Library and Information Consortium (MALICO)
MALICO was established on 7 May 2003 and launched its VSAT Network, giving academic
connectivity from north to south of Malawi in 2005, leveraging 4 VSATs purchased with the support
of OSISA, World Bank and Dossani Trust. It pioneered the establishment of the Malawi Research
and Education Network. It contributes to the subscription of eResources and the production of local
and relevant content for Malawi's repositories. Workshop have been organised in Malawi to develop
Open Access policies for research organisations.
MALICO's objectives include:
To encourage national, regional and international cooperation among information stakeholders,
To influence information policy at the national level,
To work for adequate ICT infrastructure for members, especially sufficient internet bandwidth
To assist in the development of appropriate ICT skills at all levels,
To facilitate access to electronic journal articles in international databases,
To organise and digitise Malawian content,
To provide information consultancy.
Current activities include establishment of a national digital repository at the National Library
Service and subscription to international e-resources for the academic community.
MALICO has been working with organisations like INASP (International Network for the Availability
of Scientific Publications) and EIFL (Electronic Information for Libraries). INASP aims at improving
access to, and production and use of, research information and knowledge for sustainable
development. Through INASP funding, MALICO has developed a four-year strategic plan from
2014 -2018 so that the consortium follows a clear road map and becomes self-sustainable.
Although there are many areas in which the consortium needs strengthening, the strategic plan
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covers some of the areas deemed to be a nexus between previous and future activities of the
consortium such as training of trainers in information literacy, library marketing and advocacy and
licensing and negotiation skills.
MALICO in collaboration with EIFL, an organization that works with libraries in more than 60
developing and transition countries has enabled access to knowledge for education, learning,
research and sustainable community development. Some of MALICO’s benefits from EIFL include:
Licencing- through central negotiation with publishers, EIFL negotiates highly discounted prices
and fair terms of use to increase access to scholarly material that is essential for research and
education.
Open access: EIFL advocates for the adoption of open access policies and mandates. EIFL also
builds capacities to launch and sustain open access repositories.
Copyright and libraries: EIFL seeks to address these issues by promoting fair and balanced
copyright laws that support libraries in providing access to knowledge.
Free and open source software for libraries: EIFL supports the deployment of free and open
source software and provides the necessary training, enabling libraries to achieve significant
cost savings.
Sources of funding: MALICO members, INASP, EIFL
Geographic scope and timeframe: National, ongoing
10.3.8 Malawi Research and Education Network (MAREN) – Malawi NREN
The Malawi Research and Education Network (MAREN) is a non-profit national organization formed
in October 2005 with the aim of establishing sustainable communication and networking among
research and education institutions in Malawi. Its main mandate is to offer a single focus for
pursuing excellent Internet connectivity for the Tertiary Education and Research Sectors in Malawi.
MAREN has assisted its member institutions to renumber their networks to be identified globally as
research and education institutions. The availability of national and international fibre is a catalyst
for the implementation of the physical network. It builds on the head start offered by the Malawi
Library and Information Consortium (MALICO) VSATs network but aims to go further by providing
fast fibre connectivity linked to neighbouring countries, to the rest of Africa and to the EU academic
network (GEANT).
MAREN was registered as a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee in late 2009 and has now
set up its own Secretariat with full time personnel based at Chancellor College. The National
Commission for Science and Technology, University of Malawi and Mzuzu University are
represented on the board of Directors. Currently MAREN has been involved in the following
activities:
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Completed the development of a fibre campus for the University of Malawi sites: College of
Medicine and related medical research complexes, Blantyre Campus of Kamuzu College of
Nursing and the Malawi Polytechnic.
Working with ESCOM, the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi, to utilise the two fibre
strands given to MAREN for academic connectivity between Blanytre and Lilongwe.
Working with MACRA, Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority, for harmonious regulatory
conditions for academic connectivity
Working with EU and UbuntuNet Alliance for research and education networking for the
implementation of the EU AfricaConnect Project
Collaborating with MISPA on the activities related to the Malawi Internet Exchange and hosting it
at Malawi College of Medicine.
The Malawi National Grid Initiative will be another of the early outcomes.
Through UbuntuNet Alliance MAREN is a beneficiary under the Africa Connect and Africa Connect
2 eInfrastructure projects.
Source of funding: UbuntuNet Alliance, MAREN members, Malawi Government
Geographic scope and timeframe: National, ongoing
10.3.9 ESCOM (Electricity Supply Cooperation of Malawi) Fibre Optic project
ESCOM has laid fibre-optic cables that will connect Mozambique with the Zambian border town of
Mchinji to ease communication problems. The cable networks connect Tete in Mozambique and
Mchinji provide services ranging from voice, data, fax and radio communication system.
The cables were laid on ESCOM’s power lines throughout Malawi to build the networks that form
the country's national fibre-optic backbone. They provide voice, data, fax and radio communication
systems. The project commenced in 2008.
In addition, the cables will also provide ESCOM with a communication system linking the power
generation center with control centers and, eventually, with the regional office. At the end of the
project ESCOM will have enough bandwidth to lease to ISPs (Internet service providers), mobile
service providers, television companies, and government and education institutions.
Source of funding: Malawi Government through ESCOM
Geographic scope and timeframe: National, 2008-2011
10.3.10 National Digital Repository (NDR)
In 2009, the National Library Service (NLS) began collaborating with the Institute of Development
Studies (IDS, UK) on the Malawi Development Exchange (MDE), a project to facilitate the widening
of access to development information in Malawi, by collecting and disseminating Malawian
research. MDE, based at the NLS, has established procedures and processes for collecting and
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digitising research documents and is making these available through a website with a supporting
online community or related professionals. NDR is implemented by MALICO.
Additionally, MALICO, with the support from the International Network for the Availability of Scientific
Publications (INASP) and eIFL.net, developed a proposal for the establishment of a digital
repository for research in Malawi.
The National Digital repository of research from Malawi aims at collecting research outputs from
Malawian institutions and building their capacities in global knowledge sharing. It is envisaged that
the increased accessibility and visibility of Malawian research outputs will increase their impact on
policy and bring more transparency to research institutions. A second aim is to link to, learn from
and utilise the related work, ensuring close collaboration, identifying opportunities for further
collaboration and avoiding duplication of effort.
The project also includes a training component for technicians, researchers, non-governmental
organisations and policy makers to enable them to repackage their research for different audiences
to input such and on how to use the repository.
Efforts by the University Libraries, the National Library Service, the National Commission for
Science and Technology and the National Archives are also underway to have the Students Degree
Projects; Past Exam Papers; Theses and Dissertation; the Malawiana Collection; local scientific
papers and the Presidential speeches digitised. This will increase visibility and accessibility of
Malawi’s local content on the Internet that has few information resources on Malawi’s content at the
moment.
Source of funding: Institute of Developmental Studies, UK; Malawi Government
10.3.11 eHealth Projects
Baobab Health Trust, a Malawian NGO focused on providing technology solutions for healthcare
challenges in Malawi, works with the Ministry of Health to design and utilise medical informatics to
replace traditional paper based systems. Solutions assist healthcare workers with registering
patients and aggregating essential medical data for improved healthcare management to facilitate
efficient patient care. Projects include setting up a 24 hour toll free hotline, accessed by clients
seeking health advice about their pregnancy or care of young children and a booking systems for
ante and post natal care using SMS Technology.
The College of Medicine is undertaking research related to magnetic resonance imaging in Malaria
research to support common neurological disorders and improving clinical services for patients
receiving care at the teaching hospital. Complex scans are sent to Michigan State University over
VSAT for further investigation. The MRI Scan is also serving neighbouring countries such as
Zambia and Mozambique to detect issues related to malaria and brain disease, spinal cord, heart
and great vessel, head and neck diseases etc.
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In addition there is the Health Management Information Systems (HMIS), developed on Windows
using simple programming language on a common desktop database platform using MS Access
with district level systems on standalone platforms. There are plans to use web based DHIS2
version by modifying the open source code for District Data with support from Oslo University and
Malawi College of Medicine. The system was developed with support of Technical Assistance
through donor financial aid. The Malawi government sustains the day to day running of the system.
Source of funding: Malawi Government, University of Oslo, Michigan State University
Geographic scope and timeframe: National, 2009- current
10.3.12 Mobile Innovations and eBanking
The two mobile service providers (Airtel and TNM) introduced Mobile Money and mobile bill
payments - Mpamba and Airtel Money. To use the service one has to register for the mobile money
service. The service has been extended to enable client to pay bills as well.
Banks are using ICT to provide Internet banking to its clients. Some banks have implemented
mobile SMS alerts to inform clients of transactions on their accounts.
10.3.13 Digital Migration Project
The Digital Migration project started in the 2010/11 at an estimated cost of US $ 10 Million and is
funded by the Malawi Government under Public Sector Infrastructure Program (PSIP). The main
goal is to introduce Active Digital Television signal in Malawi and with a target of smooth migration
from analogue to Digital Terrestrial Television Broadcasting. It is an ITU driven project and Malawi is
the signatory to the ITU June 17, 2015 Migration Agreement.
The Malawi Digital Broadcasting Policy was approved by Government in July 2013. The network
was commission on 31st December 2013. The project aspires to reach out to 90 % of the Malawian
Population. The network is expected to carry 20 TV channels and 10 Radio channels, but currently
there are only 9 TV channels on the network.
Source of funding: Malawi Government
Geographic scope and timeframe: National, 2010 - Current
10.3.14 Malawi Internet Governance Forum
Malawi launched the Internet Governance Forum on 23 July 2014 following a consultative meeting
with academia, private sector and NEPAD Secretariat. Internet Governance affects a wide range of
social and political issues including IP, cyber security, privacy and domain management. The overall
objective of the Malawi Internet Governance Forum (Mw-IGF) is to establish a multi-stakeholder
process that will shape the development of Malawi’s Internet economy by: increasing awareness
and build capacity at national level; facilitate consultation with relevant stakeholders; make
recommendations in relation to emerging issues; shape national policy and contribute to
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strengthening the multi-stakeholder dialogue model for Internet Governance in the SADC region
and Africa.
10.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
10.4.1 National Priorities
National ICT Research Priorities include:
eHealth - To enable faster, safer, better healthcare by placing medical information in the right
hands at the right time; Improve patient safety; Provide better access to specialist care in all
geographic areas through the increased use of technology and information systems, such as
tele- medicine. Institutions involved include: College of Medicine, Kamuzu College of Nursing,
Chancellor College
eAgriculture - Getting and sharing information among fellow farmers; ability to include market
competitiveness. Institutions involved include: LUANAR, Department of Extension Services
(Ministry of Agriculture)
eInfrastructure and Entrepreneurship - To ensure that Internet is accessible in remote areas;
Tool for socio economic development. Institutions involved include: MACRA, Chancellor
College, Polytechnic of Malawi
eGovernment and eDemocracy - Campaigning and voting tool; Provides accessibility to
politicians and policy makers. Institutions involved include: eGovernment Department;
Chancellor College, Electoral Commission
Technology-enhanced Learning - To provide freedom to learn when and where at own pace;
provides high levels of coverage; ensures consistency of learning materials to all students;
Cross-platform support. Institutions involved include: Chancellor College, Kamuzu College of
Nursing, College of Medicine, Polytechnic, Mzuzu University
Digital Libraries and Repositories - Exposing local content to international communities;
preserving information; East of access to information. Institutions involved include: MALICO,
National Library Service, University of Malawi, Mzuzu University, LUANAR
10.4.2 National Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
The table below provides an overview of some of the universities with ICT/Engineering Courses:
Institution Location Total Students
ICT/Engineering Department(s)
ICT/Engineering Teaching Staff
Undergraduate Students
Post-Graduate (Masters, PhD)
University of Malawi, Chancellor College
Zomba 4,071 ICT 6 3,925 146
Polytechnic of Malawi
Blantyre 3,345 Engineering 10 3,300 45
Lilongwe Lilongwe 1,620 Engineering 10 1,620 207
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University of Agriculture and Natural Resources
Mzuzu University Mzuzu 2,500 ICT Librarianship
5 2,475 35
Department of Information Systems and Technology Management Services
Lilongwe and Blantyre
1,500 ICT 15 1,500
University of Livingstonia (UNILIA)
Rumphi 1000 ICT
Computer Engineeering
5 1000 0
Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST)
Thyolo 500 Innovation
Computer Science in Network Security
6 475 25
DMI St. John Baptist University
Mangochi 500 Engineering in Computer Science
5 500 0
Daeyang University
Lilongwe 166 ICT
3 166 0
The following universities and research centres in Malawi are undertaking ICT-related initiatives
University of Malawi - Chancellor College91
Research Focus - Use of ICT in Science and Engineering: e-learning, mobile health, ICT
architecture, IT Audit, operating systems, ICT for development, software engineering,
searching, usability, Computer Network Management and Internet Security
University of Malawi: Polytechnic92, Engineering Department
Research Focus - Use of ICT in Science and Engineering, internet research and security,
software development, Telecommunications, Geographic Information Systems- remote
sensing, Environmental health
Mzuzu University93 - ICT and Informatics Department
Research Focus – Electronic library and Information systems, coding and cryptography,
digital libraries, renewable energy, Internet research, eHealth
Lilongwe University for Agriculture and Natural Sciences - Engineering Department
Research Focus- ICT for Agriculture, Sustainable environment, e-learning
91 http://www.chanco.unima.mw/ 92 http://www.poly.ac.mw 93 http://www.mzuni.ac.mw
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Malawi University of Science and Technology70 - Information Technology and management
sytsems
10.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders and discussion during the IST-Africa H2020 Workshop on
12 November 2014 the following thematic areas are considered to be important in the context of the
ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Topics Partners include
eHealth / mHealth Health Information Systems/Electronic Health Records; Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH); Health diagnosis and Surveillance - Malaria, hypertension, diabetes, cancer; Mechanisms and alarms to deal with compliance issues (remembering to take medication, attend clinic etc); Telemedicine and remote diagnosis
Chancellor College (Department of Computer Science, Department of Physics); College of Medicine; KCN; Mzuzu University; Baobab Health Trust; Malawi Liverpool Welcome Trust, University of Livingstonia; Polytechnic of Malawi; MUST;
eAgriculture Food Security; Agri-food based applications; Market Information; Aflatoxin management in food crops
LUANAR; Chancellor College; Department of Agricultural Research Services; Mzuzu University
Technology-enhanced Learning
mLearning; Distance Learning LUANAR; Chancellor College; Mzuzu University; National Library Services, MUST (Insitute of Technology).
Environment Renewable Energy; Waste Management including eWaste
LUANAR; MUST (Climate and Earth Science Dept); University of Malawi (Chemistry Dept), Polytechnic (Dept of Environmental Science and Technology)
eGovernment Public Service Delivery; eCommerce Applications
Chancellor College, Polytechnic; eGovernment Dept.
10.4.4 Mapping to H2020 Themes
The initial mapping to Horizon 2020 Research areas is summarised below:
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Components and Systems Chancellor College, University of Malawi (Dept of Computer Sciences): Smart Embedded Components and Systems, Organic Electronics, Large Area Integration, Smart Integrated Systems, Systems of Systems and Complex System Engineering
Polytechnic, University of Malawi (Department of
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Computing and Information Technology): Smart Embedded Components and Systems, Organic Electronics, Large Area Integration, Systems of Systems and Complex System Engineering
National College of Information Technology: Smart Embedded Components and Systems
College of Medicine, University of Malawi: Smart Embedded Components and Systems, Organic Electronics, Smart Integrated Systems
Advanced Computing Chancellor College, University of Malawi (Dept of Computer Sciences): Interconnect and Data Localisation Technologies, Cloud Computing, Parallel Computing and Simulation Software
Polytechnic, University of Malawi (Department of Computing and Information Technology): Interconnect and Data Localisation Technologies, Cloud Computing, Parallel Computing and Simulation Software
Mzuzu University (Department of Information, Sciences and Communication): Interconnect and Data Localisation Technologies, Cloud Computing
Future Internet Chancellor College, University of Malawi (Dept of Computer Sciences): Cloud Computing, White Spaces, Networks, Software and Services, Wireless Communication
Polytechnic, University of Malawi (Department of Computing and Information Technology): Cloud Computing, Networks, Software and Services, Wireless Communication, Immersive Interactive Multimedia
Mzuzu University (Department of Information, Sciences and Communication): Cloud Computing, Networks, Software and Service
Content Technologies & Information Management
Chancellor College, University of Malawi (Dept of Computer Sciences): ICT Infrastructure, Language Technologies, Digital Repositories, Digital Preservation, Technology-enhanced Learning, Machine Learning
Polytechnic, University of Malawi (Department of Computing and Information Technology): Advanced Data Mining, Technology-enhanced Learning
Mzuzu University (Department of Information, Sciences and Communication): Digital Repositories, Technology-enhanced Learning, Analytics
Kamuzu College of Nursing (Community and Mental Health Dept): Technology-enhanced Learning
Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health College of Medicine, University of Malawi: Telemedicine
Kamuzu College of Nursing (Community and Mental
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Health Dept): Telemedicine
Mzuzu University (Dept. of Health Sciences; Department of Nursing and Midwifery and ICT Dept): Health Information Systems. eHealth
Chancellor College (ICT Dept.): Mobile applications in e-health
Polytechnic, University of Malawi (Dept. of Environment): Environmental health, health information system
Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST): Health information system. eHealth
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture
LUANAR (Dept. of Crop and Soil Sciences, Dept. of Home Economics and Human Nutrition, Dept. of NRM)
Mzuzu University: Sustainable Food Production Systems
Lilongwe University of Agriculture & Natural Resources: Sustainable Food Production Systems
Department of Agricultural Research Services: Sustainable Food Production Systems
Climate Action, Environment, Environment, Resource Efficiency and Raw Materials
Lilongwe University of Agriculture & Natural Resources: Water Resource Management
Polytechnic: Water Resources and Supply Managemnet
Secure Societies Chancellor College, University of Malawi (Dept of Computer Sciences): Trustworthy ICT
Polytechnic, University of Malawi: Trustworthy ICT
Level of Research Maturity
Malawi has a good research base and experience in collaborative research with participation in over
20 projects and securing over €3 million in funding under FP7: ICT (2 projects), INCO (1 project),
Infrastructure (5 projects), Environment (2 projects), Health (8 projects), KBBE (1 project) and
Science in Society (1 project). Mzuzu University, National Commission for Science and Technology,
UbuntuNet Aliance and University of Malawi have a track record in FP7.
During the first year of Horizon 2020, Malawi organisations have secured participation in three
eInfrastructure Horizon 2020 projects and one project under ICT-39-2015 (mHealth4Afrika).
Institutional Research capacity was validated through statistics obtained from the National Council
for Higher Education (NCHE) which is an institution mandated to accredit education institution
programmes in Malawi. In addition, the data was also verified through the records available from the
NCST’s Directory for Research and Development institutions in the country.
Most of the research is being conducted at the public Universities (University of Malawi (Chancellor
College, Polytechnic, College of Medicine and Kamuzu College of Nursing); Lilongwe University of
Agriculture and Natural Reources (LUANAR); Mzuzu University and the newly established Malawi
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University of Science and Technology (MUST)) as well as research institutions. The National
Commission for Science and Technology is providing active support to the research community
through IST-Africa activities.
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11. MAURITIUS
11.1 Introduction
Mauritius is situated in the South West Indian Ocean,
slightly over the tropic of Capricorn, in latitude 20° south
and longitude 57° east of Greenwich. It is 2,000 km off the
east coast of Africa and some 855 km east of Madagascar.
An island of volcanic origin with an area of 1,864 km2, it is
almost entirely surrounded by coral reefs. There are nine
administrative districts and three dependencies*; Agalega
Islands*, Black River, Cargados Carajos Shoals*, Flacq,
Grand Port, Moka, Pamplemousses, Plaines Wilhems,
Port Louis, Riviere du Rempart, Rodrigues* and Savanne.
The population is estimated at 1.3 million inhabitants in
2014 with a literacy rate of 89.8% (Statistics Mauritius
2013). In 2014, seventy percent of the total population was between 15 and 64 years of age. Port
Louis, the capital, has a population of 128,000 (Statistics Mauritius 2013). The languages are
Creole, Bhojpuri, French and English.
Mauritius has established itself as one of the leading economic reformers in Africa, successfully
transitioning from a Low Income into an upper Middle Income Country (African Development Bank,
2014). Strong institutions in a politically stable and thriving business environment and effective use
of trade preferences particularly with Europe and India have been instrumental in driving growth and
facilitating an impressive economic diversification.
Mauritius has diversified its economy from sugarcane into tourism, textiles, financial services, and
Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The ICT sector has recently been propelled into
a major role as the third pillar of the Mauritian economy as the Government considered ICT to be a
key enabler for economic and sustainable development. In 2014 the ICT sector contributed 6.4% of
GDP and creating employment for c. 19,000 people (Statistics Mauritius, December 2014). Over the
past 4 years, Mauritius has moved up the GCI ranking of the World Economic Forum Global
Competitiveness Report from 54 to 39 (Global Competitiveness Report 2014/2015). Its Network
Readiness Index increased to 4.5 and ICT Development Index to 5.41 in 2015. Mauritius is among
the most competitive and successful economies in Africa. It was ranked at 10th position among 189
countries in the World Bank’s 2014 Doing Business Survey.
In relation to Communications, according to the Information and Communication Technologies
Authority, there were 375,300 fixed phone line subscriptions (29.72% penetration rate), 1.680
million mobile phone subscriptions (133% penetration) iand 776,500 internet subscriptions (61.5%
penetration) in June 2015.
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The telecommunications sector was liberalised at the end of 2001 and has evolved from a classical
analogue network to a fully digital one. Mauritiius is linked to the South Africa Far East (SAFE)
submarine cable (2002), the Lower Indian Ocean Network (LION) submarine fibre cable (2009), and
LION2 submarine cable (2011). An Independent Regulatory Authority (ICTA) was established in
2002. There are currently 2 Fixed Line Operators, 3 Mobile Operators and 13 ISPs. The National
Internet Exchange Point (NIXP) is hosted at the Government Online Centre. A national Public Key
Infrastructure (PKI) Ecosystem is in place.
Within the public sector, there are seven tertiary education institutions: the University of Mauritius
(UoM), University of Technology, Mauritius (UTM), the Mahatma Gandhi Institute (MGI), the
Rabindranath Tagore Institute (RTI), the Open University of Mauritius (OU), previously known as the
Mauritius College of the Air, the Fashion and Design Institute (FDI) as well as the newly-created
Université des Mascareignes (a merger of the former 2 polytechnics, namely the Swami Dayanand
Institute of Management and the Institut Supérieur de Technologie). Three public institutions, also
run programmes at the tertiary level: the Mauritius Institute of Training and Development (MITD), the
Mauritius Institute of Health (MIH) and the Mauritius Institute of Education (MIE). In addition to the
seten institutions, 55 private institutions are registered locally, providing tertiary education in diverse
fields, ranging from Certificate to PhD, with the awarding bodies mostly based overseas (52 out of
58).
11.2 ICT Background
Mauritius has emerged as an international and competitive ICT destination and is steadily
positioning itself as a regional ICT Hub. The Government Programme 2010 - 2015 was to create an
“i-Mauritius”, Intelligent Mauritius, making Mauritius one of the most connected nations in the world
and to reduce the digital divide by providing access to broadband. The Government has developed
and implemented two National ICT Strategic Plans 2007 - 2011 and 2011 - 2014, which have
developed the ICT sector. The Strategic ICT plan builds on five strategies categorised under five
pillars:
(i) Setting up Smart Cities and Techno parks across the Island
(ii) Development of an ultra-high speed, safe and trusted telecommunications infrastructure.
(iii) Building a Globally competitive workforce for Technology and Communication
(iv) Development of a National Innovation Programme
(v) Making Mauritius a Regional Hub and a gateway to Africa.
To foster innovation and develop a vibrant ICT Sector, the Ministry of Technology, Communication
and Innovation (MTCI) has been set up in 2015 to replace the Ministry of Information Technology
and Communication (MICT). The main objectives of the MTCI are to
Formulate appropriate policies and provide the necessary legal framework for the development
of ICT and its optimal use across all sectors.
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Facilitate, through the implementation of an E-Government programme, the provision of
Government services electronically anytime anywhere for the greater convenience of the public.
Promote and facilitate the development of the ICT sector.
Ensure that the ICT culture permeates all levels of the society to bridge the digital divide to the
extent possible.
Promote the development of ICT enabled services including e-business.
Encourage the adoption of new technologies and best practices in the ICT.
Promote capacity building in ICT
Institutions reporting to MTCI include: the National Computer Board (NCB), the Mauritius Research
Council (MRC), the ICT Authority (ICTA) and the Business Park of Mauritius Ltd (BPML). The core
mission of the NCB is to accelerate the transition of Mauritius into a regional ICT hub and ensure
the swift realisation of government's objective to make of the ICT sector a key pillar of the economy.
MRC acts as a central body to advise Government on Science and Technology issues and to
influence the direction of technological innovation by funding research projects in areas of national
priority and encouraging strategic partnerships. The BPML is responsible for developing and
managing business parks and help make Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) a key
pillar of the Mauritian Economy.
The ICT-BPO industry in Mauritius has experienced sustained growth from less than 100 companies
in 2005 to 700 in 2014.
Major international ICT players, including Oracle, Microsoft, IBM, HP, CISCO, Orange Business
Services, Accenture, Infosys, Hinduja Group, France Telecom, Ceridian, the TNT Group, have set
up their operation and development centres in Mauritius.
There are two main ICT industry associations in Mauritius: the Mauritius IT Industry Association
(MITIA) and the Outsourcing and Telecommunications Association of Mauritius (OTAM). MITIA is an
association of major ICT companies, whereas OTAM represents the interests of the Telecom
operators and the BPO players in Mauritius.
The Government of Mauritius is fully conscious of the key role that the legal framework has to play
in ensuring a healthy and sustainable development in the ICT industry. In this context, appropriate
legislations on data security, protection of intellectual property rights and cyber crimes (Electronic
Transaction Act, Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act, Data Protection Act etc) have been enacted
to encourage the effective growth of the ICT sector.
A National Broadband Policy 2012 – 2020 (NBP2012) was launched in January 2012, which sets
out a strategic vision for a broadband Intelligent Mauritius, and establishes national goals regarding
broadband while elaborating specific policies to achieve those goals within the overarching National
ICT Strategic Plan (NICTSP) 2011-2014 context.
Other relevant strategies include
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eGovernment Strategy (2013 - 2017) which outlines measures for Government2Business,
Government2Citizen and Governement2Government
National Green IT Policy and Strategy (2014 - 2017)
National Open Source Policy, Stategy and Action Plan (2014 - 2019)
National Cyber Security Strategy (2014 - 2019)
National eWaste Policy, Strategy and Action (2015)
11.3 Current ICT Initiatives and projects
ICT Initatives are currently ongoing at national level in the areas of Education (Universal ICT
Education Programme, Education through ICT, ICT Skills Development Programme), Digital Divide
(Community Empowerment Programme, Public Internet Access Points, Cyber Caravan Project,
Community Web Portal), eGovernment (Government Online Services and eServices, Mauritius
National Identify Card, Public Key Infrastructure, eJudiciary Programme, Crime Occurrence
Tracking System, ePayment Project, eHealth, ePrison, National ICT Strategic Plan, eGoverment
Stategy Report), Cyber Security (National Computer Emergency Response Team, Critical
Inofrmation Infrastructure Framework, National Cyber Security Strategy), Entrepreneurship (NCB
ICT Incubator Centre), Green IT (National Green IT Policy and Strategy, eWaste Policy and
Stategy) and Open Source Policy and Strategy).
11.3.1 Universal ICT Education Programme
The National Computer Board (NCB) operating under the aegis of the MTCI has been implementing
the Prime Minister’s Universal ICT Education Programme (UIEP) since September 2006. One of the
priorities of the programme is the introduction of the internationally acknowledged Internet and
Computing Core Certification (IC3) course with a view of making it the benchmark for digital
literacy/proficiency in Mauritius.
The programme aims at training a maximum number of persons comprising students, employees,
non-employee and the population at large on the IC3 course in line with Government’s vision of
accelerating the transformation of Mauritius into an ICT hub and in developing ICT into a major pillar
of the economy.
The IC3 course 45 hrs in duration and trainings are done in state secondary colleges after school
hours. To date 197,000 people have been trained on IC3.
In January 2010, NCB launched the UIEP Phase II whereby more than 3,000 online professional IT
and non–IT courses were made available at very interesting prices to all those who complete the
IC3 or already have a recognised certificate in IT. The courses modules are bundled into 15
separate packages and includes course materials leading to popular certifications such as MCSE,
MCSA, MCAD, CISCO, CompTia, Oracle, A+, N+, Server+, Linux, Project Management etc. This
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phase II is currently being reviewed where most of the advanced courses will be delivered by the
ICT Academy.
11.3.2 ICT Academy
The ICT Academy was set up by the MTCI and operated by the NCB, with the main objective of
meeting the demand of the ICT/BPO industry in terms of skilled manpower. Different training
programmes under the Capacity Building Framework of the Ministry of TCI are being implemented
at the Academy to increase employability, address the skill shortage that exist in the ICT/BPO
sector and to bridge the skill mismatch gap between unemployed IT jobseekers and industry
requirements. Training programmes are dispensed at the Academy in collaboration with different
Industry players such SIL, IBM, Microsoft, TWO institute for Cisco Academy, OTAM, MITIA and
others. Some of these programmes that are to be launched include: Mobile Application
Professionalisation scholarship programme; ICT Career Readiness in CCNA, PHP and
Dreamweaver; Oracle Certified Associate - Java SE8; Oracle Database 11g Administrator and
Mobile Application development. Trainings such as BPO Certification courses are also provided as
required.
11.3.3 Community Empowerment Programme
The objective of the Community Empowerment Programme (CEP) is to facilitate the process for the
community to make use of ICT to fully participate in the socio-economic development of Mauritius.
The CEP is in line with the Government programme to encourage the development of local content
and creativity. The CEP will contribute for the development of Mauritius in the following ways:
Bring together the country's development stakeholders to build a strong online network of local,
regional and global development communities on the web. Address the needs of various
communities in Mauritius including NGOs, academic and private sectors and professionals.
Democratise access to ICT.
Provide comprehensive, high quality information about the country, its economic and social
structure.
Help to reduce the “Digital Divide” by providing concerned online information.
Stimulate the development and production of local content on the Internet.
To date, 280 computer clubs with free Internet access have been set up in 23 youth centres, 17
women centres, 57 social welfare centres, 132 community centres, 20 day-care centres and 31
NGOs/Municipal Councils/Village Halls across the island. Around 1.37 million people (including
recurrent users) have been able to make use of the facilities. Access to ICT has been further
extended by setting up 7 Learning Corners in different parts of Mauritius and in 11 other locations
with the collaboration of the National Empowerment Foundation (NEF).
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The CEP has been extended to Rodrigues Island in collaboration with the NEF by setting up of
Learning Corners. Each Learning Corner is equipped with three computers and free Internet access
and is open to the public. 12 Learning Corners have been set up in Rodrigues.
The Public Internet Access Points, Cyber Caravan projects and Community Web portal are
associated with the CEP Programme. One hundred Public Internet Access Points (PIAPs) have
been set up in Post Offices (95 in Mauritius and 5 in Rodrigues) and around 223,430 people have
been able to make use of the facilities. This service is provided free to disabled, orphans, senior
citizens, unemployed and a nominal fee for other users.
Launched in November 2000, the Cyber Caravan Project aims at making IT facilities available to the
community. The NCB presently operates three Cyber Caravans, which are equipped with 9, 10 and
21 PCs respectively and broadband Internet connection. Training on ICT Awareness, Microsoft
Office Package (MOP) and IC3 on a regional basis is provided on board the Cyber Caravan. To
date, about 163,000 people have been initiated in basic IT Skills (2 hrs course), MOP (28 hours
course) and IC3 (45 hrs course).
The Community Web portal provides local content for democratised information sharing with a web
page for each location. The CWP covers the locations of Mauritius to provide information about the
country; its geographic, historical, economic, social structure, relevant activities, businesses, etc.
So far, content for above 100 villages and localities of Mauritius has been gathered. Contents for
the remaining locations of Mauritius are being gathered progressively.
11.3.4 Government Online Services (GOC) and e-Services
The Government Online Centre (GOC), operational since May 2005, is a centralised data centre
that supports e-Government initiatives. The GOC hosts the Government Web Portal (GWP), which
provides secured online Government services round-the-clock. Being a common platform for
Ministries and Departments, the GOC enables the optimisation of IT investment for the public
sector. Over 200 websites are being hosted for Ministries and Departments and Parastatal Bodies.
The Government Web Portal94 (GWP) is a one-stop-shop providing comprehensive information and
enabling online applications on a 24 x 7 x 365 basis in a user-friendly manner. The GWP consists of
a homepage and four sub-portals, namely, Citizen, Government, Non-Citizen and Business.
The GWP has a dedicated eServices section for online applications. This eServices section
enables the submission of online applications, the receipt of online acknowledgements and the
online tracking of the status of applications, amongst others. The list of e-services have been
segmented by target persons (105 services), by domain (50 services), by Ministry (40 services), by
department (10 services) and by parastatal bodies (10 services). There has been an exponential
growth of use of eServices especially the eFiling of income tax. Citizens can also transact with the
94 www.gov.mu
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Government through payment of online services, for instance, payment of a driving test or payment
for police duties request. In addition, the government portal is now mobile friendly with the Smart
App (over Apple and Android) and the Smart Browser View.
GOC also provides Internet access to over 180 secondary schools and 265 primary schools and
Internet & E-mail facilities to over 8,000 employees of Ministries and Departments.
With the setting up of a National Internet Exchange Point (NIXP) on the GOC platform, Internet
Service Providers (ISPs) in Mauritius can peer through to GOC so that local bandwidth is contained
in Mauritius thereby saving on international bandwidth.
11.3.5 National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-MU)
The Computer Emergency Response Team of Mauritius (CERT-MU), a division of the National
Computer Board, is promoting cyber security issues at the national level. CERT-MU serves as a
focal point in Mauritius for computer security incident reporting and Response.
Services offered by CERT-MU include:
Information Security Incident Handling and Management
Vulnerability scanning and Penetration Testing of networks, applications, and devices
Disseminating information security news and latest information security alerts to constituency
members
Advise parents on the issues of Child Online Safety including Social Networking sites
Security Awareness Programmes on Information Security
Third Party Auditing and providing assistance in implementing ISO 27001.
CERT-MU is also a member of the following bodies:
1. Forum for Incident Response and Security Teams (FIRST), a premier organisation and
recognised global leader in incident response.
2. Anti- Phishing Working Group (APWG)
3. International Multilateral Partnership Against Cyber Threats (IMPACT)
11.3.6 NCB ICT Incubator Centre / Technopreneurship Programme
The NCB ICT Incubator Centre was set up to encourage young entrepreneurs to create start-ups in
the ICT sector by providing them with logistic and business support. The NCB-ICT Incubator centre
has benefited from financial assistance from the infoDev Capacity Building Grant – Support for new
and start-up incubators in developing country in 2004.
NCB has revamped its ICT Incubator Centre to a Technopreneurship Programme to encourage
innovation and creativity to develop a community of Entrepreneurs in the ICT Sector. The NCB
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Provides Guidance, Business Advice, Support and Training to Start Ups under its
Technopreneurship Programme.
To promote software development, the NCB is offering Microsoft BizSpark. BizSpark is a global
program that helps software start-ups succeed by giving them access to current full-featured
Microsoft development tools and technologies to build their applications, professional technical and
community support and global visibility to an audience of potential investors, clients and partners.
Microsoft and the US Embassy through the U.S. Global Entrepreneurship Program also supported
the NCB for Capacity Building Programme namely Apps and Business plan writing.
The Technopreneurs of NCB are being guided to become world class Technopreneurs. In 2012,
Archnet Ltd, one of our Technopreneurs was selected by the US Embassy to participate in the
Young African Leaders Innovation Summit and Mentorship Programme in Washington DC, USA. In
2013, LittleBox Studio Ltd, another startup was nominated to participate in the East Africa Regional
Startup Boot Camp in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on May 7-8, 2013, as part of the Global Innovation
through Science and Technology (GIST) Initiative. LittleBox Studio was ranked 40th out of 200
participants present at the event.
To attract the innovative minds of Mauritius new generation by challenging their creativity and
capacity in Business, Science and Technology, the National Computer Board organised the ICT
Business Idea Competition 2014, the first ever competition of its kind in Mauritius.
To increase the ICT Adoption among SME’s Workshop on “SMART SMEs: Empowering SMEs
through ICT” was organized to trigger the importance of ICT adoption among non ICT SMEs.
The objectives of the SMART SMEs conference were to create greater awareness among SME’s on
the benefits of ICT in enhancing their competitiveness in the new Economy; to learn how ICT can
best help SMEs to solve their business challenges for self-empowerment, greater efficiency and
sustainable growth and to showcase and promote ICT products and services that is most applicable
to the ICT development of SMEs.
The NCB Technopreneurship Programme is promoting TechIdeaSpace. TechIdeaSpace is a new
program to help nascent Technology start-ups with innovative ideas to transform these into
successful business. The objectives of TechIdeaSpace are to
Ensure continuous creation of ideas and start-ups.
Inspire and stimulate development of innovative ideas among start-ups
Sensitise and disseminate knowledge on Technopreneurship.
Identify potential ideas for further transformation into successful businesses
11.3.7 ICT Skills Development Programme (ISDP)
The ICT Skills Development Programme was launched in October 2012 to address the mismatch of
ICT Skills and to cater for the increasing demand of manpower in the ICT/BPO industry. It is
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estimated that the ICT Sector would require an additional workforce of 15,000 persons in the next
few years.
The ICT Skills Development Programme comprises two incentive schemes for ICT/BPO companies.
The Training and Work Placement Scheme encourages ICT-BPO companies to train unemployed
youths having an SC, HSC, Diploma and/or Degree on an industry led Mauritius Qualification
Authority (MQA) approved course and to offer them a placement. The scheme entitles ICT/BPO
companies to claim the refund of up to 50% of stipend and 50% of training costs, where applicable.
The second scheme, the Work-Based Learning for University Students scheme, allows Employers
to identify talents before graduation among Tertiary Level Students through a ‘Work Based
Learning’ concept. ICT/BPO companies are encouraged to recruit trainees from the ISD Programme
database and offer them a work-based training/placement. Trainees should undergo the training/
placement for at least 2 times for a period of 6 weeks each during a year of study. Participants
receive an all-inclusive stipend during the placement. The scheme refunds 50% of the stipend paid
to the ICT/BPO Company.
To date, c. 176 companies and 1,700 active job-seekers have registered with the ISDP, out of which
around 1,450 participants have secured training and work placement.
11.3.8 E-Government Projects
In line with the eGovernment Strategy 2013 - 2017, a number of eGovernment projects have been
implemented:
(a) Law and Order - Crime Occurrence Tracking System (COTS)
In November 2012 the Crime Occurrence Tracking System (COTS) was implemented on a pilot
basis to empower MPF with a tool for effective and efficient tracking of crime occurrences in the
country using emerging ICT solutions. The system encompasses Computerisation of Occurrence
Book & Master Registers, Tracking of movement of case file or dossier, Generation of Statistical
Information and Maintenance of confidentiality.
With COTS in place, statements are captured electronically at Police Stations, finding of enquiries
captured online and cases lodged at Courts. Thus ensuring that case related information are
available at the finger tips and closer monitoring of crime cases and statistics.
(b) e-Prison: The e-Prison system was launched in May 2014 for a better management of the prison
inmates and a follow-up on their rehabilitation.
(c) e-Judiciary - In April 2013, an e-Filing System has been implemented at the Commercial Court
for commercial cases. This initiative ushers in an age of modernity to the way cases are filed
and processed in our courts. The next stage will be the roll out of the solution to other courts
including district courts for the trial of criminal cases.
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(d) e-Procurement: The Ministry of Finance and Economic Development (MOFED) is currently
implementing an integrated web-based e-Procurement System (ePS) for the Public Sector that
will improve procurement processes and enhance transparency.
(e) e-Work Permit: This system aims to faciliate the application and issuing of work permits within 2
week. A a full-scale review of the work processes at the Employment Division was undertaken
through the establishment of an e-Work Permit Plan in June 2012 by the services of the Central
Informatics Bureau of the Ministry of ICT
(f) e-Education: Interactive projectors have been introduced at upper primary level through the
Sankore project. Tablet PCs were distributed to Form V students in 2014. The classrooms are
undergoing a major uplifting through the provision of Wi-Fi connectivity and high bandwidth
Internet to Secondary Schools.
(g) eHealth: Work is ongoing to implement an eHealth system including electonic medical records,
electronic imaging systems and ePrescriptions
(h) Document Management System - supported by Public Key Infrastructure which was set upu in
June 2012
(i) e-Payment project: The ePayment system is operational since November 2013 in the
Government Online Centre supporting payment for driving license and police fees, for Lease of
state land, for Incorporation of a business, company registration fees and parking fines
11.3.9 Critical Information Infrastructure Framework
The project aims at setting up a policy framework for Information Security Assurance and Critical
Information Infrastructure Protection with the main objective of identifying and protecting the critical
information infrastructures of Mauritius. The policy will be based on the UN Resolution 58/199:
Creating a Global Culture of Cybersecurity and Protection of Critical Information Infrastructures and
focuses on leadership, risk mitigation and awareness and defines a plan of immediate actions to
strengthen the security and resilience of CIIs. The main critical sectors identified for Mauritius are
namely Energy, Financial Services (incl. Banking), Government Services, Health, ICT &
Broadcasting, Manufacturing, Sugar, Transport & Logistics, Tourism, Customs and Water Supply.
The main recommendations for the policy fall under 3 main pillars:-
i. Leadership and Governance: Establish clear leadership and governance in information security
risk management at national level and at level of organizations;
ii. Risk Mitigation: Establish mandatory information security risk management policy for critical
sector operators to protect against cyber security threats.
iii. Awareness and Prevention: Promote the adoption of information security best practices.
The project forms part of the National CyberSecurity Strategy and Action Plan 2014 - 2019.
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11.3.10 EU Code of Conduct for Data Centres
In line with its initiatives to promote Green IT, the NCB organised a capacity building programme on
EU Code of Conduct for Data Centres (EUCOC) in 2013, leading to industry certification from BCS,
the Chartered Institute for IT, with 60 participants from organisations operating data centres or large
server rooms. The EUCOC is a series of best practices that have been created by the UK’s
Department for the Environment, Farming and Rural affaires (DEFRA), the British Computer Society
Data Centre specialist group (BCS DCSG) and the EU Joint Research Centre (EU-JRC) in
conjunction with industry professionals for use in mission critical data centres/server room
environments. They provide mechanisms for ICT staff to implement energy efficiency measures to
reduce energy consumption, thus reducing GHG emission and associated reduction in energy
costs. This capacity building programme was funded by the European Union and a Report has been
prepared by the Consultant with the main objective of providing recommendations and measures to
enhance energy efficient data centres in Mauritius.
The NCB has been granted an “Endorser” of the EUCOC, being the first organisation in the African
Region, with the main aim of promoting the code for data centres in Mauritius.
11.3.11 Implementation of Anti-Cyber Threat Monitoring System
The Cyber Threat Monitoring System will enable CERT to better respond, monitor and coordinate
cyber-threats at the national level. The system will have the capability for early detection of
potentially devastating cyber-attacks and the ability to respond to cyber security incidents in real
time. Through this establishment, cyber threats can be monitored round-the-clock for critical
installations.
The core functions of the system are to:
Reduce the risk of cyber security threats and attacks on government websites and portals, as
well as critical information infrastructures.
Carry out round-the-clock security operations for early detection and prevention of potential
cyber threats.
Gather cyber threat intelligence, which it will analyse and assess for drawing up defensive
measures at the national level.
Promote awareness of cyber threats and coordinate security responses in both public and
private sectors.
The other core activity of the Anti- Cyber Threat Monitoring System is the Cyber Threat Analysis.
This will help to mitigate cyber risk with a comprehensive approach to threat identification,
intelligence gathering and validation, and response to protect critical information of the constituency
members. This will also help to determine the nature of attacks, vulnerability types and analysis of
malicious code.
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11.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
11.4.1 National Priorities
National ICT Research Priorities include ICT Energy Efficiency, eWaste Management, eAgriculture,
Bio-informatics, Biometric Security, Context Awareness, eHealth, Technology-enhanced Learning,
Digital Enterprise.
ICT Energy Efficiency – Focused on reducing carbon emissions, Minimising environmental
impacts and sustainable economic development. Institutions involved include: University of
Mauritius, National Computer Board, University Technology Mauritius and Mauritius Research
Council, Middlesex University
eWaste Management – Focused on minimising environmental impact, promoting standards
linked with eWaste reduction and promoting a Green and sustainable environment. Institutions
involved include: University of Mauritius, University Technology Mauritius, Ministry of Local
Government and National Computer Board
Software Engineering – Focused on boosting the Software industry, creating skilled software
developers and branding Mauritius as ICT Hub. Institutions involved include: University
Technology Mauritius, University of Mauritius, Université des Mascareignes and National
Computer Board
Bio-Informatics – Focused on improving the health of the population. Institutions involved
include: University Technology Mauritius
Biometric Security – Focused on security identification of the individual. Institutions involved
include University of Mauritius
Intrusion Forensic – Focused on Security and Confidentiality. Institutions involved include
University Technology Mauritius, Université des Mascareignes
Attack on VOIP Networks – Focused on Security and Denial of Service. Institutions involved
include University Technology Mauritius
Context Awareness – Focused on improving the lives of society and improving healthcare
services. Institutions involved include University of Mauritius, Université des Mascareignes
Performance optimisation of database driven websites – Focused on boosting the software
industry and creating skills software developers. Institutions involved include University
Technology Mauritius, Université des Mascareignes
ICT for Creativity and Productivity – Focused on improving the productivity of the individual and
organisation. Institutions involved include: University Technology Mauritius and University of
Mauritius
ICT for Health – Focused on improvement of healthcare service. Institutions involved include:
University Technology Mauritius, Université des Mascareignes and University of Mauritius
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Technology-enhanced Learning – Focused on promoting eLearning and eEducation. Institutions
involved include: University of Mauritius, University des Miscarriages and Mauritius Research
Council
Digital Enterprise – Focused on Multimedia development leading to sustainable and green
environment. Institutions involved include: University Technology Mauritius
Scientific Computing - GPU Computing with iterative solutions methods. Institutions involved
include: University Technology Mauritius
Big Data Technologies - University of technology Mauritius, Middlesex University
11.4.2 National Research Capacity
The table below provides an overview of universities in Mauritius with ICT/Engineering Courses for
2013:
Institution (Publicly funded)
Location Total Students Undergraduate Students
Post-Graduate (Masters, PhD)
Overall ICT/Eng Overall ICT/Eng Overall ICT/Eng
University of Mauritius Reduit 12,492 2,986 9,314 1,370 1,408 379
University of Technology Pointes-aux-Sable
3,909 792 3,199 523 610 109
Mauritius Institute of Education
Moka 2,943 - 115 - 80 -
Open University of Mauritius
Reduit 1,512 29 857 29 593 -
Universite des Mascareignes (ex- Swami Dayanand Institute of Management and Institute Superieure
Beau Plan 1,199 658 595 550 - -
Mauritius Institute of Training Development
Phoenix 555 2111 - - -
Institution (Private) Location Total Students Undergraduate
Students Post-Graduate (Masters, PhD)
Overall ICT/Eng Overall ICT/Eng Overall ICT/Eng
Amity Institute of Higher Education
Ebene 369 48 249 48 150 -
C-DAC School of Advanced Computing
Quatres-Bornes
93 53 50 50 43 43
Charles Telfair Institute Quatres-Bornes
1,820 52 1,009 52 62 -
Middlesex University (Mauritius Branch)
Ebene 260 888 233 81 27 7
Whitefield Business School
Quatres-Bornes
300 150 300 150 - -
Note: Overall ICT/Eng also includes Certificates, Diplomas, Undergraduates, and Post Graduates Source: Tertiary Education Commission (2014)
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The following universities and research centres in
Mauritius are undertaking ICT-related initiatives in the
research field. As part of its ongoing IST-Africa activities,
National Computer Board has undertaken a consultation
with national stakeholders and each institute has outlined
its current research expertise, track record and mapping to
research areas:
University of Mauritius95
Department Computer Science and Engineering;
Department Mechanical and Production
Engineering; Department of Chemical &
Environmental Engineering
Research areas include: Health; Climate; Environment; Smart Cities; Bio-informatics;
Efficient Computing; IPV6; Context Awareness; Mobile and Ubiquitous Computing; Smart
Energy Grid; Energy engineering and management; Renewable energy technologies;
Biometric Security; Access Control for healthcare; Software agents; Software oriented
Services; Metadata development; Ontology engineering; Adaptive Coding Techniques for
Data Transmission, Growth of Nanostructured Materials; Intelligent/Computational Intelligent
Systems: Neural Networks; Fuzzy and Immune Systems, Quantum Computing;
Computational Intelligence, Human-Computer Interaction; Sustainable Agriculture & Bio-
Economy; Energy engineering and management; Renewable energy technologies
Examples of research expertise and types of projects undertaken are provided below:
Department of Computer Sciences and Engineering
o Bioinformatics
The objectives of this group are to study algorithms used in Bioinformatics, to contribute new
algorithms, to study how Bioinformatics data is stored and accessed throughout the world,
and to look into how Mauritius can contribute to Bioinformatics Data Banks.
o Efficient Computing
The main aim of the research group is to propose computer-based solutions that improve the
productivity of the individual and, consequently, improve the effectiveness of the
organisation the individual belongs to. The current activities are:
o Consultancy for Aapravasii Ghat Trust fund (Aapravasii Ghat is a UNESCO world
heritage centre)
o Proposal for EDP in Leveraging Web 2.0 in Mauritian Enterprises
o Deployment of IPv6
95 http://www.uom.ac.mu
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o Context awareness
Context-Awareness is an emerging area of Computer Science, whereby computer systems
can make decisions and take actions based on context information such as location, time
temperature or the presence of specific individuals. The objective of this group is to
investigate how the use of context-awareness can improve the lives of users and how
context-awareness can be put to the service of the Mauritian society. The University of
Mauritius is working on a paper entitled “Access Control Mechanisms for Collaborative
Context-Aware HealthCare Services in Mauritius”.
o Intelligent systems
The group concentrates on research in fields such as Biometrics, Computer Vision, Artificial
intelligence and Human Computer Interaction.
o Mobile and Ubiquitous Computing
The main objective of this research group is to use these technologies to enhance the quality
of life of human beings. The research group will investigate the human, social, technical,
hardware and software issues involved with mobile and ubiquitous computing. Research
projects in different areas including infrastructure development, identifying new concepts and
building ubiquitous applications will be undertaken. The group will also address the issue of
expert human resource development in this area. The focus will be making the group “one of
the best in the region” to start with this.
o A Study of Online Social Networks (OSNs) in Mauritius: Impact on Secondary Education
This research project has investigated the roles that online social networks play in teaching
and learning at secondary school level. This project was undertaken by University of
Mauritius and Mauritius Research Council from June 2011 to August 2012.
The findings showed that Mauritian students are using OSN sites extensively on a daily
basis. It was found that students are already making use of OSNs to discuss school works
and teachers also are communicating with students through these online sites.
In addition, experiments have been carried out on the use of OSNs to conduct classes and
observations have been reported. Results from this study have clearly shown the benefits of
using OSNs in learning. Students were eager to make use of this new way of learning and
therefore this can act as a motivating factor in the learning process. Policy makers can thus
consider the results of this study in order to take decisions regarding the use of OSNs in
secondary education. A number of recommendations based on the study have been made
on how OSNs can be integrated in formal education. The project was completed in 2013.
o Investigate & Forecast the Future Energy Demand and the Potential of Renewable Energy to Mitigate GHG Emissions
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This project is a major platform to support the government of Mauritius in its quest to
implement the ‘Maurice Ile Durable’ concept. It was undertaken between November 2011
and May 2012. The study provides evidence of present electricity demands and
consumptions as well as Greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions resulting from power
production. The purpose of the project is to investigate and forecast the future electricity
demand and supply by formulating an adequate model using the LEAP tool. For the study,
three scenarios were developed, namely: Business-As-Usual (BAU), Demand-Side-
Management (DSM) and Optimum scenarios. The BAU scenario represents a base case
scenario with no policy intervention, the DSM scenario study the potential of electricity
conservation technologies while the optimum scenario investigate the potential of
Renewable energy technologies (RETs) in the power sector.
o Study of Waste Collection Systems in two Local Authorities
The project focuses on the assessing on a pilot basis the current waste collection facilities in
for a particular Municipality and District Council, in order to formulate guidelines for the
National recommendations pertaining waste collection and transportation, for the Ministry of
Local Government and Outer Islands (MOLG). For this purpose, systems dynamic models
are developed to understand and optimise the waste collection process.
This project has been completed.
o Pose and light invariant Face and Ear Recognition System
Biometrics authentication consists of methods for uniquely recognizing humans based upon
one or more intrinsic physical (e.g. face, iris, fingerprint, ear) or behavioural (e.g. typing
rhythm, gait) traits. This research work will concentrate on problems related to face and ear
recognition systems. The existing face recognition systems are prone to errors whenever
there is a change in pose and lighting in the picture of subject concerned. The problem is
then to tackle the varying pose and light condition issues.
This project was completed in 2013.
o A Secure Data Access Model for the Mauritian Healthcare Service
This project ran from November 2010 - February 2013, funded by the Mauritius Research
Council.
The aim of this project was to study the applicability of Role-Based Access Control (RBAC),
supported by Context-Based Access Control (CBAC), to perform control access to patient
data in a typical healthcare service. The project consists of the analysis of the healthcare
information system in a private clinic of Mauritius and study of design and implementation
issues of providing access control to such a system, based on RBAC and CBAC. The work
includes the development of a prototype so as to enable to researchers to be exposed to
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practical issues that crop up in the application of such concepts to real-life data. This project
was completed in 2013.
o Development of an open platform for “Volunteer thinking"
This project is funded by International Development Research Centre (IDRC), a Canadian
funding agency, as a wider effort to promote open science. The initial investigation will look
into how problems can be broken down into tasks so that they can be outsourced to
volunteers, an undefined public. A proposal is actually being sought out in collaboration with
researchers from CERN and co-founders of the Open Knowledge Foundation. The
considered direction is how problems related to skin lesions in developing regions can be
applied with crowd-based analysis to detect skin cancers as well as other diseases.
This project commenced in July 2012 and is ongoing.
o Automatic Suspect Behaviour Recognition System
This project aims at tracking body movements and detecting suspect behaviours. The
motivations for this work are to prevent accidents and crimes. The existing video surveillance
systems try to verify how (and people) after an event has taken place while this project work
will try to detect suspect movements and activate alarms to allow for intervention by
appropriate authorities. The outcome of this project work can also be useful to vulnerable
members of the society like under-aged and old people. This project started in Nov 2013.
o Setting up a data warehouse for infectious diseases
This project will consist of the development of a data warehouse, at the University of
Mauritius, for infectious diseases caused by bacteria. It will consist of the development of the
required software tools that will access bacterial genome databases, perform the filtering for
relevant data, cache the appropriate data at a local data store at the UoM, and provide a
user-friendly interface to the data.
The main aim of this project is to encourage the development of Bioinformatics research on
bacteria-based infectious diseases, in Mauritius, by providing fast-access to an up-to-date
data store that is easy to use. This project started in Nov 2013.
o A Sustainable Green-Computing Framework for Clusters of ICT Equipment
The University of Mauritius carried out a case study to investigate various energy
consumption and demand patterns in Computer Laboratories as well as server rooms, in
order to formulate an adequate framework gearing towards a sustainable solution to resolve
the high energy usage of clusters of ICT equipment. This project focuses on analysis of
energy model for studied clusters and formulation of a sustainable Green-Computing
framework to assist institutions/organisations having major dependencies on clusters of ICT
equipment. This project started in Nov 2013 and is still ongoing.
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o Scalable Video Surveillance System for Suspect Behavior
This project involves automatic recognition of body movements from Video Surveillance
Systems. It started in Feb 2014 and is still ongoing.
o Building a Biometric Database of Palmar and Dorsal Hand Patterns
This project involved Image Capture for biometric security using hand features. The project
has been completed.
o Wireless Sensor Network System for Precision Agriculture
Development of clustering and routing algorithms for the transmission of data from
agricultural fields to the base station for analysis. This project is still ongoing.
o Prototype Implementation of a Marine Information System using Sensor Networks and
GIS
This project lays the foundation for a marine information system that suits the requirement
for the Ocean Economy. The most important marine activities were first identified together
with their most suitable sensor network configurations. The data from the sensor networks
will be integrated to a GIS. Since we have different types of data, it will be important to
design a system which can allow easy integration of such data. The framework developed
should allow any marine economic activity to deploy their sensor network and visualize their
data from the Geographical Information System. This project is ongoing
o Implementation and Evaluation of ECNAS - Erasure Coded Network Attached Storage
(NAS)
This project proposes a novel architecture for NAS that includes three layers. The User
Layer presents the user with a layout of files similar to windows environment, whereby files
are stored in folders and subfolders. The Intermediate Layer (Mapping Layer) stores
information about the files and the locations of the related blocks. The Storage Layer is
where blocks of data are physically stored. After implementation of the architecture of
ECNAS, several Erasure Code Techniques will be used to upload data. The system will then
be evaluated to come up with the optimal technique for this type of architecture. The newly
implemented system will also be technically compared to the traditionally used File Server.
This project is still ongoing
o Healthcare Information System
The expected outcome of this project is to develop a Healthcare Information System (HIS)
for Mauritius and for the region, to improve health services in public and private hospitals, as
well as from private practitioners. The HIS will consist of a Patient Medical Record and
Scheduling System, a Patient Portal, and Health Analytics capabilities. This project is being
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undertaken in collaboration with State Informatics Ltd and the Mauritius Research Council
under the Collaborative Research and Innovation Grant Scheme. The project is ongoing
Department of Chemical & Environmental Engineering
o Cane Resources Network for Southern Africa, 2002-2008
The Cane Resources Network for Southern Africa96 (CARENSA) will critically assess the role
of bio-energy from sugarcane in promoting sustainable development and improving global
competitiveness in the region of southern Africa. The main objective of CARENSA is a
comprehensive synthesis and comparative evaluation of the utilisation of cane resources in
the region, including organisational and institutional dimensions as well as technical features
and socio-economic and environmental impacts. The European Commission's Directorate
General for Research supports the thematic network in the amount of 500.000 EURO. The
Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) serves as Scientific and Administrative Coordinator
for the Network. There are three other principal contractors responsible for the Network and
nine members. The project team was designed to place the key issues in their proper
regional and global context, while also promoting north-south and south-south cooperation
on cane resource development.
o Collaborative Curriculum Development on Waste Management in Africa and the
pacific Region (CODWAP), 2008-2011
As Solid Waste Management (SWM) is dominated by economic capacity constraints,
CODWAP97 focuses on a number of issues, which are often overlooked in African and
Pacific Region (APR) countries over other priorities (mainly irrigation and sanitation).
CODWAP aims to establish an active and sustainable co-operation forum on curriculum
development, which is consistent with APR socio-economic development priorities. The
development of SWM educational tools, which are customised, easy-to- use, practical and
suitable to the needs and priorities of the participating APR countries, is formulated around a
Master Course on SWM (to be piloted by the University of Mauritius), as well as a number of
related training courses, both in the EU and APR countries.
o Small Developing Island Renewable Energy Knowledge and Technology Transfer
Network (DIREKT), 2009-2012
Network (DIREKT)98 is a cooperation scheme involving universities from Germany, Fiji,
Mauritius, Barbados and Trinidad & Tobago with the aim of strengthening the science and
technology capacity in the field of renewable energy of a sample of ACP (Africa, Caribbean,
Pacific) small island developing states, by means of technology transfer, information
96 http://www.carensa.com/ 97 http://acp-edulink.eu/content/codwap-collaborative-curriculum-development-waste-management-africa-and-pacific-region-0\ 98 http://www.direkt-project.eu/
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exchange and networking. Developing countries are especially vulnerable to problems
associated with climate change and much can be gained by raising their capacity in the field
of renewable energy, which is a key area.
The project was funded by the ACP Science and Technology Programme, and EU
programme for cooperation between the European Union and the ACP region (Africa,
Caribbean, Pacific).
o Re-Sources Network, 2012-2017
The project is focused on Solid waste Management in Western African countries.
o L3EAP, 2013 - 2016
The purpose of the L³EAP99 project is to increase the capacity of universities in African,
Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP) SIDS to deliver high-quality Lifelong Learning
courses on the topics of energy access, security and efficiency.
The three-year half million Euro project is coordinated by Hamburg University of Applied
Sciences in partnership with USP, University of Mauritius and Papua New Guinea University
of Technology. The project is ongoing.
University of Technology, Mauritius100
Depts include: School of Innovation, Technology and Engineering; School of Sustainable
Development and Tourism
Research areas include: Climate change; Energy Management; Waste Management;
Sustainable assessment; Future Internet; Mobile Communication; Context Awareness; IPV6;
Data Mining; Web Caching Algorithms; Krylov subspace method for eigenvalue problem and
its applications; Intrusion forensics; Security on SIP-based VoIP networks; Energy modelling
for sensor networks; GPU Computing with iterative solution methods; Performance
optimization of database-driven websites; Orange Money API
Examples of research expertise and types of projects undertaken are provided below:
o Implementation of a USSD API
Development and implementation of an open USSD Enabler for the Emerginov platform.
Completed in 2011.
o Digital Propagation models for Mauritius
A statistical model of digital propagation has been developed. These models were tested on
the data they were developed from with good results. The models had also been tested on
new data collected from the areas from which the original data was collected with very
99 http://project-l3eap.eu/ 100 http://www.utm.ac.mu
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satisfactory results. In addition to this, each of the models was tested on data from the rest
of Mauritius and it had been shown that the two models were sufficient to model digital
propagation in the whole of Mauritius. This project has been completed.
o A technology independent framework for partitioning and retracting context awareness
In this project, an application partitioning and retraction framework is being proposed for next
generation applications that will have the capabilities to seamlessly partition and retract
themselves on multiple computational nodes in a pervasive environment.
This project commenced in May 2012 and finished in September 2013.
o Formulation of a unified data mining theory through composite functions
The pattern extraction and discovery of useful information from a dataset are the foremost
purposes of data mining. For the past decade there have been multiple attempts and strong
beliefs in the development and formulation of the unified data mining theory that would
answer to the fundamental versions related to the discovery of knowledge. We are proposing
a novel unified data mining theory conceptualized through the composite functions. This
project commenced in June 2004 and finished in December 2012.
o Web caching algorithms for highly customizable portals
The aim of the research is to propose a content management that can dynamically update
port lets configuration based on usage and port let change at the content producer. This
project commenced in April 2007 and finished in December 2012.
o ERP for SMEs
This research project will lead to a final Framework, which is based on Modelling Concepts
and Scenario Development on ERP and what are the adoption and acceptance
denominators towards an ERP. This project commenced in December 2008 and is due for
completion in October 2014.
o Learning difficulties in geometry
Geometry is a vital part of mathematics but research has shown that pupils are not
demonstrating strong conceptual knowledge of the geometrical skills and are failing to learn
basic geometrical concepts as much of the learning has been done by rote. In Mauritius, as
well, teachers have reported that pupils found geometry abstract and difficult and the
textbooks cover geometry in only a few pages. Rote learning of the properties of shapes for
examination purposes is a common practice in schools. This study aims at investigating the
performance of upper primary pupils in two-dimensional geometry; to what extent can the
use of inquiry-based teaching and/or Creole as means of instructions improve learning and
retention of two-dimensional geometry; and what is the relative impact of pupils’ home
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backgrounds and pupils’ characteristics in determining performance in geometry. This
project commenced in January 2008 and finished in December 2012.
o Secure access through authentication and biometrics/smart cards technologies
The purpose of this study is firstly to conduct a comparative analysis of different existing
authentication techniques followed by identifying potential flaws in existing authentication
systems and implementing possible improvements in view of selecting best Biometric
Technology (or Technologies) suitable for smart cards. At an advanced stage of the
research, we shall design cryptographic technique(s) adapted for biometric applications in
smart cards. This project commenced in January 2012 and is due for completion in October
2015.
o GPU Computing with iterative solution methods
Mathematical modelling of various scientific and engineering systems often boils down to
solving partial differential equations using efficient and very stable solvers. In recent years,
several high-order schemes for two-dimensional convection-diffusion equations have been
proposed. In this research work, using the CPU-GPU computing environment, the
optimization of numerical algorithms for solving the large sparse linear systems of algebraic
equations generated from the schemes will be investigated. This project commenced in
January 2012 and is due for completion in October 2015.
o Reliability assessments and predictions over mobile and ubiquitous computing
Mobile and Ubiquitous computing have opened up several new avenues for the whole world.
The aim of this investigation is to study the factors that contribute to reliability in this field and
how to work with them in order to assess and predict, improve the reliability features, what
should be the desired levels of reliability metrics identified. This project commenced in May
2011 and is due for completion in July 2015.
o Intrusion forensics
The research aimed at providing a solution to code/data confidentiality of mobile agent
based on an adapted implementation of the Bell-Lapadula model for access control.
Experiments will be conducted on mobile agents programmed in Java on the JADE
middleware platform for agent execution. This project commenced in Sept 2005 and nearing
completion.
o Security framework to combat attacks On SIP-based VoIP networks
In this project, a security framework will be developed and will focus on detecting some of
the VoIP attacks and classification of these attacks as real or automated scenarios by using
the concepts of pattern recognition method. This project commenced in May 2011 and is due
for completion in June 2017.
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o Harnessing the potential of ICT to influence learning of mathematics at the beginning of secondary schooling
The aim of this research is to investigate the possibility of using ICT in the learning system
with the view of improving the study of mathematics in lower forms at secondary level. This
project commenced in January 2012 and is due for completion in July 2017.
o Krylov subspace method for eigenvalue problem and its applications
This project aims at developing and enhancing algorithms for the solution of harmonic
eigenvalues, that is, interior eigenvalues of the spectrum. Furthermore, the thesis focuses on
the application of the Eigen problem algorithms in the field of multimedia and technology; for
example, face recognition and image compression. This project commenced in March 2012
and is due for completion in February 2016.
o Energy modelling for sensor networks
The objective of this work is to contribute towards enhancing the lifetime of sensor networks.
This project commenced in June 2008 and is due for completion in June 2015.
o Software tool for option pricing
All major financial institutions and investors make use of option contracts to speculate on
trends in the stock market or to keep their level of risks from other investments under control.
The price of an option is determined in order to prevent arbitrage. In this project work, we
will focus on the development of new numerical schemes for pricing European, American
and Asian options under different models. This project commenced in December 2008 and is
due for completion in December 2015.
o Performance optimization of database-driven websites
This research will address the problem of bottleneck present in Relational Database servers
by using the new HTML5's web storage capabilities to model a client side query caching
mechanism. This project commenced in January 2012 and is due for completion in June
2016.
o Orange Money API
Extension of Orange Money API from Orange France Telecom, to provide enhanced
services to micro service developers.
o Open Hardware and Micro-Services
This project aims to allow users with basic or no knowledge of C/C++ to use and access
arduino remotely through a secure web API. The design phase is complete, and has been
presented to Orange Labs in December 2012. A fully functional prototype was available from
mid June 2013 for testing purposes.
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o Matrix equations with fuzzy parameters
This project aims to develop efficient algorithms for the solution of the discrete-time
Sylvester matrix equation when the equation is partly or fully fuzzy in nature. Project started
on 30 April 2013 with a duration of seven years on a part time basis
o Numerical pricing of life insurance and annuities
This project aims to develop fast and efficient state of the art numerical algorithms to price
life insurance and annuities. Project started on 30 April 2013 with a duration of seven years
on a part time basis.
o 3D Compression for multimedia systems
This project aims to research 3D compression techniques that can be used in mobile
networks for optimized compression. Project started on 30 April 2013 with a duration of
seven years on a part time basis.
o Feasibility of IPv6 in Cellular Networks
This research project consisted of looking at the issues in implementing IPv6 over a GSM
network in the Mauritian landscape. The project outcome was a roadmap and successful
deployment of cellular calls with IPv6. The project is under a non-disclosure agreement
between the university and a mobile operator and has been completed.
o Triple Play Services on PLC
The feasibility for broadband transmission over Power Line Communication was
demonstrated theoretically. Investigation on triple play services on PLC is the core of this
research project. The project is on-going.
o Scaling Up IoT and M2M with IPv6
The limitations of SIM and IPv4 addressing is a major obstacle towards scaling up IoT and
M2M. Based on M2M applications developed, we are exploring scalability issues. The
project is at the initial stage.
o Energy Information Systems with Agile Techniques
This research project sheds light on the importance and benefits of having an EIS across
state members or regional blocks. The project is on-going.
o Predictive Analysis using Time and Space Series for Carbon Footprint in Mauritius
This project involves data acquisition on a massive scale (big data) using a smartphone and
sensors in view of predicting acidity of seawater and other environmental indicators. The
project is at the initial stage.
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o Transition models from traditional to SDN networks
Proposed transition models from existing networks towards SDN networks are tested in a
simulation environment. The project is ongoing.
o Optimal Harvesting Strategies for Fisheries
The project is ongoing.
o High order methods for solving option pricing problem
The aim of the project is to study high order methods for numerically approximating linear
and non-linear option pricing problems. The project started in 2014 with a duration of seven
years on a part time basis.
Mauritius Research Council101
Research areas include: Wind turbine Technology; Technology-Enhanced Learning; IPV6
o Adaptive Coding Techniques for Time Varying Channels
Forward error correcting codes applied to time varying channels must be designed so as to
give the desired sink error rate for the worst case channel state. Thus when the channel is
relatively error free, much unnecessary error control power is being used, causing a
reduction in overall information rate. An adaptive coding scheme employs only the
necessary degree of error correction to be applied and so improves the information's rate
and through put efficiency.
o Developing successful entry strategies for BPO operations in Mauritius
The major objectives of this project is to study the types of BPO services outsourced and
identify which ones are most suited for the Mauritian economy. The main activities involved
in this project is the studying of the Mauritian environment related to BPO activities and
available infrastructure and conducting a survey in some existing companies currently
providing BPO services to identify their services, gauge if they meet the required criteria
such as track record in BPO, specialization in the business processes to be outsourced,
available experience in the company's industry. This project is completed.
o Electronic Commerce tools and Methodology using web-based technologies
Electronic commerce is rapidly emerging as a new model for trade transactions and the web-
enabled architecture is opening up tremendous opportunities for information dissemination
and information sharing. This research is innovative in developing a set of tools,
methodology and services targeted for local enterprises to benefit from the technology. The
research will also contribute in clarifying the needs for the proper institutional and legal
101 http://www.mrc.org.mu/
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framework that will be required so as to fully exploit the technology. This project has been
completed.
o Evaluation of importance of corporate e-learning in providing a competitive edge to Mauritian companies
The anticipated results of the research would enable CSL to know whether companies in
Mauritius are willing to adopt e learning as a supplement to corporate classroom training as
well as providing insights into priority areas and training needs for e learning in Mauritius.
This project has been completed.
o A Study of Online Social Networks in Mauritius: Impact on Secondary Education (undertaken with University of Mauritius)
Since no prior research about the usage of Online Social Networks (OSNs) by secondary
students in Mauritius has been carried out so far, our first objective will be the gathering of
data, both quantitative and qualitative about students’ usage of OSNs. This will be done
through surveys and interviews of both students and teachers. The raw data itself will be
very useful for future research works in the area since it is currently unavailable for
Mauritius.
o A Secure data access model for the Mauritian Healthcare Services (undertaken with University of Mauritius)
The project consists of the study of the RABC and context-based access control techniques,
their applicability to the Mauritian healthcare service and the development of a prototype
based on these techniques. The project started in October 2020 and completed in October
2012.
o Development of a Locally Designed Wind turbine Technology
The project shall consist of developing a small low cost wind turbine locally and for the local
harsh conditions with a view to power up individual houses with a low to medium income or
as a complement to the electricity grid systems. The market ultimately is aimed at the remote
areas within our region and will benefit outer islands for Mauritius. This project has been
completed.
o Supporting QoS in Mobile IPv6 Systems.
This project started in March 2009 and is still ongoing.
Open University of Mauritius102
Research areas include: Simulation Software, Cloud Computing, Software and Services,
Multimedia, Content Access and Analytics, Data Mining, Cognitive Systems, Advanced
102 http://www.open.ac.mu
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Interfaces, eHealth, Integrated Care, Technology-enhanced Learning, eGovernment
Services, Big Data, Digital inclusion, Social innovation platforms, cybersecurity
Examples of research expertise and types of projects undertaken are provided below:
o Investigating the effective use of tablets by distance education learners
This project started in July 2014 has been completed.
Charles Telfair Institute 103
Depts include Faculty of IT
Research areas include: Green ICT, Digital Divide, Technology-enhanced Learning, IT
Governance, Digital Inequality, Cloud Computing
Examples of research expertise and types of projects undertaken are provided below:
o Development and Evaluation of IT Governance and Green IT Model to Support Large Mauritian Organisations
Getting the Information System (IS) that meets the exact requirements of a business is often
tricky. In addition, managing business IT in an eco-friendly manner is also a matter of
concern, as key business stakeholders turn into fervent sustainability advocates. This
research combines both these issues into one with the aim of producing a model for large
Mauritian organisations to guide their business leaders wishing to adopt an IS strategy that
would best suit their business and promote environmental sustainability. It is funded by
Curtin University’s COPRS (Curtin Offshore Partner Research Scholarship).
o Digital Inequality: The Internet in Mauritius
The research focuses on the following four objectives. Firstly, to develop a clearer
understanding of the term Digital Inequality; Secondly, to investigate the diffusion of Internet,
in the developing island state of Mauritius since its mainstream dissemination and the
current state of affairs; Thirdly, to identify the main causes/determinants of Digital Inequality
in Mauritius and finally, to situate governmental and non-governmental initiatives with
regards to the main determinants of Digital Inequality in Mauritius. It is funded by Curtin
University’s COPRS (Curtin Offshore Partner Research Scholarship) and is due to end by
June 2015.
o Developing robust businesses with the power of cloud computing Among SMEs
The objective of the study is to show the extent to which the disclosure of information could
develop trust among stakeholders for the development of robust businesses. Cloud
computing, which uses web-based technologies, could contribute to disclose information
faster among stakeholders. The furniture industry, in Mauritius, is fragmented and facing
aggressive foreign competition. Porter has developed an integrated framework which
103 http://www.telfair.ac.mu
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highlighted the benefits of information. The application of web based technologies to the
porter’s framework could benefit the SMEs sector to develop robust and sustainable
businesses.
o Social Media Marketing: An investigation into SME practices in Mauritius; a case study approach
The purpose of this study is to analyse the usage of Social Media Marketing (SMM) as a tool
for Small and Medium Enterprises (SME). It identifies the ways and means that SMEs in
Mauritius can use to broaden their scope for growth. The study is geared towards
uncovering the impacts of the shifts in marketing from using the traditional forms of
marketing to new perspectives in marketing strategy. A mixed method would be used for this
research which would comprise of both qualitative and quantitative measures. Various
researches have been done in regards to Mauritian SMEs and marketing in Mauritius but
they did not expose whether the usage of SMM can bring a significant difference to the
expansion of SMEs in Mauritius. This research will lead to firstly filling gaps in literature in
regards to SMEs and secondly devising a model which can be adopted by SMEs to increase
their performance via the usage of SMM.
o “Participatory culture and education: A roadmap to the integration of participatory culture in the curriculum”
In a Mauritian context, the universities and tertiary institutions have also adopted the two-
way web or Web 2.0 in the learning environment. There are various Web 2.0 applications,
including blogs, wikis, social networking sites, pod casting, among others that have found
their way in the education sector. However, as universities and tertiary institutions have
started using this social software, the level of investment of Mauritian learners is still
desirable. This research will therefore investigate a set of research questions relating to the
participatory culture and higher level education in the Mauritian context. The first priority is
to find the core problems among learners that are creating barriers for their active
participation in the learning environment. This research will provide an investigation that will
allow the creation of a model to integrate participatory culture in the curriculum.
o Are online tertiary courses a major threat to tertiary institutions?
With the increasing number of online course providers and the opportunity of having a
degree at cheaper rate and at one’s own convenience, this research will investigate on the
impact of online courses, their target audience and on the impact it might have on tertiary
institutions.
o The role of cognitive and non-cognitive factors as predictors of academic performance: identifying the determinants of disengagement from higher education
This research will focus on identifying the cognitive and non-cognitive factors affecting
academic performance of students enrolled in higher education institutions. Factors such as
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intelligence, personality, learning styles, previous grades and socio-economic status will be
investigated. The study will also determine the factors that influence students to withdraw,
dropout or get terminated from universities. The link between academic performance and
disengagement from studies will be investigated.
This research explores issues pertaining to the performance of cultural memory in Mauritius
and build upon previous research on transoceanic rhythmic connections between the Indian
Ocean and the Caribbean. This research further explores rhythmic memory of indentured
labour and the connective rhythms we share with South Africa. The circulation of Mauritian
Bhojpuri rhythms in South Africa and the celebrated cultural memory of Malagasy
inheritance through dance and ritual are further dimensions of Indo-oceanic cultural memory.
Université des Mascareignes 104
Depts include Faculty of Engineering - ICT
Research areas include: Climate Change & Environment, Secure Societies, ICT-enabled
technologies, eHealth, Cryptography
Examples of research expertise and types of projects undertaken are provided below:
o Fast and Efficient Algorithms for Web Information Retrieval
Providing web users with a more effective, efficient and satisfying web search experience.
This project started in 2009 and will end in 2014.
o Use of ICT/Distance learning in Education
Creation of a platform for virtual campus. This project started in 2010 and is still ongoing.
o E-marketing/Social Media
Analysing the use of social media as a relationship marketing tool in the retail sector. This
project started in 2012 and is still ongoing.
o Impact of CRM in Higher Education
This research paper seeks to understand and evaluate the potential of implementing a
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) framework in higher education in Mauritius with
special reference to the Université des Mascareignes. The article was published on
“Commerce Spectrum”.
o Strength development in soils of volcanic origin, stabilized with fly ash
Effect of fly ash on the strength properties of dark magnesium clay. This project is
completed.
104 http://www.udm.ac.mu/
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o Web/mobile based traffic fluidity monitoring at Bel Air/ Rivière Sèche
This project is about the survey, computation, and digital presentation of the weekly fluidity
of road traffic at Bel-Air Riviere Sèche. The village has only one two-way main road (named
as the Royal Rd) of about 1.7 km passing through the entire village. This project started in
December 2013 and is expected to be completed by December 2014.
o Heuristic Search Procedures for Cryptanalysis
This is an MPhil/PhD research project being carried out at University of Mauritius. Use
memetic algorithms and design new/improved algorithms for the cryptanalysis of existing
standard ciphers. This project started in 2014 and will be completed by end of 2018.
o Just-in-time diabetes assistance using mobile and web technologies
The aim of this project is to develop a pilot system that will enable diabetes patient to input
their daily food consumption and daily glucose test result via a mobile application that will be
uploaded on a central database so that it can be monitored by medical practitioner in case
remedial actions need to be taken the message is sent immediately to the patient. This will
provide “just-in-time”, “anywhere and everywhere assistance”. The patient will also have the
possibility to ask question related to his health via mobile message which will be sent to a
database so that it can be processed by the assigned doctors. The project will be divided
into two parts: one using mobile technologies and one using web technologies, but they will
be using the same web service. The project started in January 2014 and is expected to end
by December 2014.
Middlesex University, Mauritius 105
Research areas include: User Interfaces, Big Data, Cloud Computing, Business Information
Systems
Examples of research expertise and types of projects undertaken are provided below:
o Assessment of energy efficiency metrics
This research focuses on energy efficiency assessment (Green ICT). The increasing
dependence of human beings on technology has not only made ICT a growing power
consumer, but also a rising contributor to the adverse effects of global climate change. In
light of the growing power consumption by ICT, accurate measurement techniques are
required since leaders cannot manage what cannot be measured. The research activities
emphasises on the assessment of energy efficiency metrics in addition to the continuous
evaluation of the maturity of Green ICT practices at organisational level.
o Study of the ubiquitous usage of mobile services and applications
105 http://www.mdx.ac.uk/facilities/location/mauritius/index.aspx
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This research, which is funded by the Tertiary Education Commission, deals with the study
of the ubiquitous usage of mobile services and applications for successful m-Government
deployment in the Mauritian ecosystem. It aims at uncovering the barriers to increased
mobile apps usage, mobile content creation and m-commerce, and devising ways and
means to boost their adoption by the Mauritian people, thereby creating better conditions for
successful m-Government services deployment in Mauritius. The fundamental problem that
this research will address is the very slow uptake of mobile applications and services in the
Mauritian ecosystem. Compared to the vibrancy of global mobile applications and services
markets, Mauritius is lagging behind when it comes to riding this new wave of technological
innovation and social transformation.
o Data governance relative to the concept of Big Data
This research is related to the field of Information Systems Management, particularly to the
data governance area relative to the concept of Big Data when powered by Cloud
Computing. Big Data basically refers to the use of huge amount of data at the disposal of
organisations nowadays whereas Cloud Computing basically refers to elastic computing
power at the disposal of customer organisations. There is a major need for data governance
nowadays due to increases compliance and regulatory measures being adopted by
governments and industry groups worldwide. However, many of the current data governance
frameworks are not adapted to the changing technology architecture brought about by Big
Data and Cloud Computing.
o Introduction of augmented reality as a pedagogical tool to enhance learning at tertiary level in Mauritius
This research at Middlesex University has been funded by the Mauritius Research Council
with the aim to introduce Augmented Reality (AR) in the teaching curriculum of our
educational system. How humans perceive and experience their surroundings is often
dictated by how their senses are stimulated. Augmented Reality offers an interface with the
potential to provide a powerful method of visualisation and interaction to its end-users. The
research undertaken will identify and explore the derived benefits at tertiary level. This study
would be the building blocks to a larger consortium with the aim of supporting new policies
on the benefits derived from integrating novel methods of Human Computer Interaction (HCI)
in academia to enhance student performance.
o Personal Carbon Footprint Analysis
This research is funded by the Mauritius Research Council and aims to develop a carbon
management framework to assess, reduce and sensitize employees within tertiary education
institutions in Mauritius. Since human activities is considered as one of the key contributors
to climate change, this work focuses human factor to carbon emissions within the tertiary
education sector. It deals with the carbon footprint analysis of employees via the use of
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online carbon footprint calculators meant for Mauritius and the results of the analysis are
used as basis for conceptualisation of the framework.
o An environment for web-based visualization and collaboration
This is a work-in-progress paper in collaboration with University of Reading and
Southampton University. The research is about a prototype collaborative online environment
that enables scientists to collaborate on the interpretation of complex environmental data.
Scientists can use the software to explore large datasets and generate visualizations, which
can be saved, together with comments, to the blog environment. These blog entries can be
shared securely within a distributed collaborative research group, allowing the members to
discover entries in a variety of ways and comment on them. The key technical feature is that
the visualizations are recorded along with the “recipe” that is needed to re-create them. This
allows scientists to recreate the visualizations and adapt them to their needs. The software
was developed in collaboration with a group of scientists working on high-resolution climate
simulations, but could be more widely applied.
o User Centric Software Engineering for Intelligent Environments
This research aims to apply, assess and improve a novel User Centric Software
Development model (UC-SDP) for Intelligent Environments. An Intelligent Environment (IE)
consists of a range of embedded devices, sensors, network architectures and middleware,
intelligent algorithms, and diverse human computer interactions amongst others. IE are also
engineered around users and therefore the engineering of such environments is a complex
undertaking involving so many multidisciplinary areas. This study is further motivated by
limited research and lack of consensus regarding software development methodology for
building and deploying such sophisticated environments. The UC-SDP model will be
compared to more established software development approaches through a pilot project
based on a living lab approach.
o Using visualisation tool for teaching Java Programming to novices
This action research project, undertaken at Middlesex University Mauritius Branch Campus,
will investigate the impact of a visualisation tool on students learning an introductory course
in Java Programming
Mauritius Institute of Health
Research areas include: Health systems Research, epidemiological studies and the
evaluation of health programmes, characterisation
Examples of research expertise and types of projects undertaken are provided below:
o Use of ICT tools in Healthcare and home follow-up of patients
The Mauritius NCD Survey 2009 shows that the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in the
Mauritian population aged 20-74 years was 21.3% and among those people known to have
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diabetes, control of their diabetes as judged by blood glucose levels was poor (47% had
Hba1c≥9.0%), indicating very high risk of developing diabetic complications. ICT applications
for out-of-hospital monitoring and treatment are promising tools to improve treatment
compliance, promote individualised care and obtain a person centred care. One specific
patient group of interest is monitoring and in-home follow-up of patients suffering from Type
2 Diabetes.
o A study of ehealth prospects and challenges in Mauritius
With emerging Internet penetration coupled with advances in networking and information
communication technologies, the e-health strategy has been introduced and accepted as a
crucial and important element in healthcare systems.
This survey will systematically examine the prospects and identify the challenges of ehealth
strategy in Mauritius and model out an appropriate framework for its adoption and optimal
utilization to enhance the healthcare services in Mauritius.
o HIV Infection and risk behaviour among seamen in the Indian Ocean - The project
started in 2008 and had duration of 10 months. It was funded by the Indian Ocean
Commission (COI).
o Medicine price availability, affordability and price components in the Republic of
Mauritius - The project started in 2008 and was of 10 months duration. It was funded by the
WHO
o International tobacco control (ITC) policy evaluation project: ITC Mauritius survey
(Cohort Study) - The project started in 2009 and was completed in 2012. It was funded by
the University of Waterloo.
o Mauritius birth defects registry - The project started in 2011 and is ongoing. It is funded by
the Ministry of Health and WHO.
o National Cancer Registry - The project started in 2005 and is ongoing. It is funded by the
Ministry of Health and WHO.
o Social and Economic Determinants of Health - The project started in 2011 and was
completed in 2013. It is funded by the WHO.
o Contraceptive Prevalence Survey 2014 - The project started in 2012 and is expected to
end by December 2014. It is funded by the UNFPA
Mauritius Sugarcane Industry Research Institute
Research areas include: Sugarcane agronomy, biopesticides, production of bioplastics,
Molecular markers for earliness/disease resistance, Crop productivity using historical data
and satellite imagery, Land use change detection, Sugarcane biomass evaluation,
Bioinformatics for sugarcane genome studies, and pathogens characterisation
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Examples of research expertise and types of projects undertaken are provided below:
o 2010 Land Use Map of Mauritius using satellite imagery - The project started in 2008 and
ended in 2011.
o Production Environment of sugarcane crop for Miller/-Corporate planters (2000-2010).
Project Crop improvement 4.7 - The project ran from 2009 to 2014.
o Efficient conjunctive use of water for sustainable sugar cane production (software
development for real-time irrigation management) - The project started in August 2010
and expected to end by 2015. It is funded by the EU Sugar Research Program.
o Weed Identification and Knowledge in the Western Indian Ocean (database and
software development) - The project started in November 2013 and will end in late 2016. It
is funded by the EU ACP-Sugar Research Program.
o Production Environment of sugarcane crop for Miller/-Corporate planters (2000-2010).
Project Crop improvement 4.7 - The project runs from 2011 to 2016. It is funded by the EU
ACP-Sugar Research Program
11.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders the following thematic areas are considered to be
important in the context of the ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Topics Partners
Energy Smart Environment/Grids; Low Carbon Electricity Supply; Energy Efficiency; Alternative Fuels
University of Mauritius, University of Technology, Mauritius Sugarcane Industry Research, Mauritius Research Council; Charles Telfair Institute
Climate Action Climate monitoring, Sustainable Environment Management, Waste Management, Geospatial Analysis
University of Mauritius, University of Technology, Mauritius Sugarcane Industry Research, Mauritius Research Council, Middlesex University, Université des Mascareignes
Sustainable Agriculture & Maritime Research
Sustainable Agriculture; Land use change; Real time irrigation management using Met data; Bioeconomy; mAgriculture
University of Mauritius, University of Technology, Mauritius Sugarcane Industry Research Institute
Smart Green & Integrated Transport
Smart Mobility, Green Transport University of Mauritius, University of Technology, Université des Mascareignes,
Mauritius Research Council
eHealth Integrated Healthcare, Health Monitoring for diabetes and other conditions
University of Mauritius, University of Technology, Open University of Mauritius,
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Université des Mascareignes; Mauritius Institute of Health;
Mauritius Research Council
11.5.4 Mapping to H2020 Themes
The initial mapping to Horizon 2020 Research areas is summarised below:
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Components and Systems University of Mauritius (Mechanical and Production Engineering Dept): Adaptive Coding Techniques for Data Transmission, Growth of Nanostructured Materials
Advanced Computing University of Mauritius (Computer Science and Engineering Department): Intelligent/Computational Intelligent Systems: Neural Networks; Fuzzy and Immune Systems, Quantum Computing
University of Technology Mauritius (School of Innovative Technologies & Engineering): Scientific Computing
Mauritius Research Council: Simulation Software
Open University of Mauritius: Simulation Software
Future Internet University of Mauritius (Computer Science and Engineering Department): Software agents, Software oriented services
University of Technology Mauritius (School of Innovative Technologies & Engineering): Mobile Computing, Future Internet
Université des Mascareignes - Softwares and Services, Heuristic Search Procedures for Cryptanalysis, Mobile programming
Middlesex University, Mauritius: Cloud Computing
Content Technologies & Information Management
University of Mauritius (Computer Science and Engineering Department): Metadata Development, Ontology Engineering
Open University of Mauritius: Content Access and Analytics, Data Mining, Advanced Interfaces
Middlesex University, Mauritius: User Interfaces, Big Data
Université des Mascareignes - algorithms for web information retrieval, customer relationship management in higher education
Mauritius Sugarcane Industry Research Institute - Statistical analysis and visual computing, big data technologies
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Robotics University of Mauritius (Mechanical and Production Engineering Dept): Computational Intelligence, Human-Computer Interaction
Open University of Mauritius - Cognitive Systems, Advanced Interfaces
Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health University of Mauritius (Computer Science and Engineering Department): Health Patient Records, Healthcare Information Systems
University of Technology Mauritius (School of Sustainable Development and Tourism): Occupational Safety and Health, Environmental Health
Open University of Mauritius – eHealth, Integrated Care
Université des Mascareignes - eHealth
Mauritius Research Council & Mauritius Institute of Health – Understanding Health, Wellbeing and Disease
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture University of Mauritius (Dept of Chemical & Environmental Engineering): Sustainable Agriculture & Bio-Economy
University of Technology Mauritius (School of Sustainable Development and Tourism): Supporting development of bio-economy
Mauritius Research Council – Aquatic Living Resources
Mauritius Sugarcane Industry Research Institute - Development of biopesticides, production of bioplastics, Sugarcane productivity in various agro-ecological zones
Energy University of Mauritius (Dept of Chemical & Environmental Engineering and Mechanical and Production Engineering Dept): Energy engineering and management, Renewable energy technologies; Technology Transfer of Renewable Energy Technologies, Energy Security access and efficiency
University of Technology Mauritius (School of Sustainable Development and Tourism): Energy Efficiency Management Programs
Mauritius Research Council: Low-Carbon Electricity Supply; Alternative Fuels and Mobile Energy Sources; New Knowledge and Technologies
Charles Telfair Institute: Green ICT
Mauritius Sugarcane Industry Research Institute - Efficient use of energy resources in sugarcane
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processing
Smart, Green and Integrated Transport University of Mauritius, Department of Chemical & Environmental Engineering: Green Transport
University of Technology, School of Sustainable Development and Tourism: Socio-Economic Research Transport Management Systems
Mauritius Research Council: Socio-Economic Research and Forward Looking Activities for Policy Making
Université des Mascareignes: Web/mobile based traffic fluidity monitoring
Climate Action, Environment, Environment, Resource Efficiency and Raw Materials
University of Mauritius (Dept of Chemical & Environmental Engineering): Waste management; Waste-to-Energy; Climate change, Environmental impact assessment, Degradability/biodegradability of solid wastes, Solid Waste Management
University of Technology Mauritius (School of Sustainable Development and Tourism): Sustainable Environment Management, Tourism, Leisure, Society and Education, Green IT, Sustainability Assessment, Tourism development and assessment, Transition Towards a Green Economy and Society, Service Experience and Economy
Université des Mascareignes: Climate Change & Environment
Mauritius Sugarcane Industry Research Institute: Identification of agro-ecological zones’ boundary with climate change for adapted sugarcane production and management
Middlesex University: Geospatial Analysis
Inclusive, Innovative and Reflective Societies
University of Technology Mauritius (School of Sustainable Development and Tourism): eServices
Mauritius Research Council: Inclusive Societies
University of Technology Mauritius (School of Innovative Technologies & Engineering): Technology-enhanced Learning
University of Mauritius, Virtual Centre for Innovative Learning Technologies: Technology enhanced learning
Charles Telfair Institute: Technology-enhanced Learning
Open University of Mauritius: Technology-enhanced Learning; eGovernment Services
Université des Mascareignes: Technology-enhanced Learning; social media and e-marketing
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Secure Societies University of Technology Mauritius (School of Sustainable Development and Tourism): Resilience to Crises and Disasters
Université des Mascareignes: Secure Societies
Open University of Mauritius: Cybersecurity
Level of Research Maturity
Mauritius has a good research base. Institutions have good experience undertaking research at
national level and are building a track record of collaborative research both through FP7 and ACP
programmes. Research capacity has been validated by NCB in cooperation with the institutions
listed. There has been an increase in the number of PhD students graduating and number of peer
reviewed scientific publications over the past 15 years.
Now that ICT has become the third most important economic pillar, there is a sense of urgency in
the Government and in the research community to leverage the opportunity that the IST-Africa
Strategic Partnership presents. This is reflected by the enthusiasm to get involved in the
development of Living Labs in Mauritius, to reinforce the impact of other government activities.
While there is clearly a strong – and successful focus on technology adoption and developing
applications, strengthening research capacity within the country is on the Government’s agenda.
There is now a much higher level of awareness of pan-African and international ideas of what level
of research maturity is required and a greater focus on the development of research results with the
potential to achieve sustainable socio-economic impact.
Joining the IST-Africa Consortium has enabled the National Computer Board to raise awareness at
the highest level of the Mauritian research community about the Framework Programme, the types
of ICT related research being undertaken internationally and the opportunities available to partner
with other countries in research proposals which may benefit Mauritius and the region. Participation
in IST-Africa also provides the opportunity to learn about projects and good practices from other
countries that can be adapted and replicated locally. Research institutions in Mauritius have
become much more aware of the Framework Programme and specific calls and more pro-active
about research.
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12. REPUBLIC OF MOZAMBIQUE
12.1 Introduction
The Republic of Mozambique is located in Southern Africa, bordered by
Malawi, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The
Mozambique Channel is to the east. Mozambique has an area of 799,380 km²
and eleven provinces: Cabo Delgado, Niassa, Nampula, Tete, Zambézia,
Manica, Sofala, Inhambane, Gaza, Maputo Provínce and Maputo-Cidade. The
population is estimated at 25.3 million inhabitants (July 2015 CIA World
Factbook) with a literacy rate of 58.8%. Fifty-two percent of the population is
aged between 15 and 64 (median 17 years)106. The capital city is Maputo with
a population of 1.187 million (2015 CIA World Factbook). Portuguese is the
official language and there are several indigenous languages as national
languages. English is widely used in business and government.
Despite fiscal reforms (including the introduction of a value-added tax and
reform of the customs service), Mozambique remains dependent upon foreign assistance for more
than half of its annual budget, and the majority of the population remains below the poverty line.
Subsistence agriculture continues to employ the vast majority of the country's work force and
smallholder agricultural productivity and productivity growth is weak. Heavy reliance on aluminium,
which accounts for about one-third of exports, subjects the economy to volatile international prices.
Estimated GPD growth in 2014 was 7%, with agriculture representing 29%, industry 21% and
services 50% (CIA World Factbook).
Mozambique reformed its telecommunications landscape in 1992. There is one fixed line operator -
Telecomunicações de Moçambique (TDM) and three mobile operators providing services - mCel,
the incumbent mobile subsidiary of TDM, Vodacom Mozambique (2003) and Movitel (2012). While
the mobile sub-sector experienced growth rates with the introduction of competition, growth has
slowed due to ineffective cost structures and insufficient infrastructure. In terms of Communications
there were 68,800 fixed phone lines in use and 18.4 million mobile phones (est. 2014 CIA World
Factbook). Internet penetration is quite low with 1.4 million users estimated in 2014 (CIA World
Factbook). During 2013 the Government initiated a revision of the 2004 Telecommunications Act to
support the development of infrastructure and greater competition.
106 CIA Factbook
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There are 2 public universities, 8 public Higher Education Institutions, 10 private Universities and 22
private Higher Education Institutions. Twenty-two institutions are dedicated to research activities, 15
of which are government institutions and 7 private.
In terms of ICT infrastructure, there are two submarine fibre optic
cables - Seacom (2009) and EASSY (2010). The national broadband
backbone provides an optical fibre connection to all 11 provincial
capitals. There is an Internet Exchange Point in Maputo. Purchase of
international capacity is facilitated for eGovernment users through the
GovNet projects and for Universities through MoRENet.
The Mozambique Research and Education Network (MoRENet) was
set up in 2005 by the Ministry of Science and Technology as part of
the ICT Policy Implementation Strategy as a national data network to
interconnect academic and research institutions. MoRENet is a
member of the Ubuntunet Alliance of which other members are Ebale
(DRC), Ethernet (Ethiopia), KENET (Kenya), MAREN (Malawi),
Rwednet (Rwanda), SomaliREN (Somalia), SUIN (Sudan), TENET
(South Africa), TERNET (Tanzania), RENU (Uganda) and ZAMREN (Zambia). MoRENET is a
partner in the Africa Connect project107 which aims to improve connectivity for research and
education within Sub-Saharan Africa by providing research networking infrastructure within the
region and organising a direct interconnection to GÉANT.
12.2 ICT Background
In 1998, the Government of Mozambique established an ICT Policy Commission, chaired by the
Prime Minister, whose primary mandate was to draw up a national ICT Policy. Following a two-year
nationwide debate involving all stakeholders (public and private sectors, civil society, academic and
research institutions, donor agencies, etc), the national ICT Policy was approved by the Council of
Ministers in December 2000. In June 2002, an ICT Policy Implementation Strategy was adopted,
which provided concrete benchmarks and targets to be achieved and indicators to assess progress.
Human capacity, infrastructure, legal and regulatory framework, e-Government, content,
applications and business development were selected as key areas of intervention to ensure that
ICT was an enabler and cross cutting issue in all sectors and development programmes.
e-Government is a key element in the ICT Policy Implementation Strategy to support the Public
Sector Reform Strategy of improving public sector performance, efficiency and cost-effectiveness
through the use of ICTs.
As part of the implementation of the ICT Policy Implementation Strategy and mobilization of
resources, many ICT projects were launched in the public sector including the Electronic
107 http://www.africaconnect.eu
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Government Network Project, SchoolNet Project, eSISTAFE (State Financial Administration
System), the Land Information Management System, SISCAL (System for Licensing and
Registration of Enterprises), Criminal Registry System, Civil Registration System, Civil Identification
Registry System, Emigration Registry System, Driving License Registry System. The private sector
has also been very innovative in providing many eCommerce and eBusiness applications to citizens
and the public sector.
The Electronic Government Network Project (GovNet) was launched to provide the Government
with a high-capacity electronic communication infrastructure that is reliable and safe for ‘rapid,
efficient and effective transportation of information’. This infrastructure is designed to support the
implementation of information systems and the installation of all applications that will enable
Government-to-Government (G2G), Government-to-Business (G2B), and Government-to-Citizens
(G2C) operations. The Electronic Transaction Law was prepared.
12.3 Current ICT Initiatives and projects
Mozambique is currently investing in several ICT projects as a consequence of the gradual
realisation of the ICT Policy, its implementing strategy and the Mozambican eGovernment Strategy.
ICT Initiatives are currently ongoing at national level in the areas of eGovernment (Electronic
Government Network, Government Portal, Capacity Building, State Financial Administration
System, Mozambique eGovernment Communication Infrastructure project, National System of Civil
Registration, Biometric Driving Licence and Motor Registration Systems, Biometric ID Card and
Passport, Criminal Registration System) and Digital Divide (Provincial Digital Resource Centres,
Multimedia Community Centres Programme).
12.3.1 Electronic Government Network (GovNET)
GovNet project commenced in 2004 initially as a Pilot Phase aimed at providing the necessary
support in the definition of the technical (hardware, software, networking) requirements,
communication protocols to be put in place, naming conventions to be established, definition of
security rules. During the Pilot phase central level of the government located in Maputo were
connected. Due to the successful implementation of the pilot phase, the Italian Government
extended its funding and the Extension Phase took place benefiting 4 to 5 institutions at provincial
level. From 2010 a third phase expaned connectivity to the districts to cover all of the 128 existing
districts in Mozambique.
Funding: Italian Government, World Bank and Government of Mozambique, and implemented by
the National ICT Institute (INTIC) (formally the ICT Policy Implementation Unit UTICT).
Geographic scope: Government agencies at national level
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12.3.2 Government Portal
The Government Portal initiative is aimed at providing a single entry point to Government
information and services which are organised according to the interests and needs of citizens,
allowing access anytime, anyplace and anywhere. The Government Portal was launched in 2006 by
the former Prime Minister Luisa Dias Diogo. Following that several Provincial government Portals
have being developed.
Funding: Italian Government through the GovNET Project described above
Geographic scope: Government agencies at national level
12.3.3 State Financial Administration System eSISTAFE
The State Financial Administration System (e-SISTAFE) was implemented to provide financial
administration services through the Internet using a single Bank account for all government
institutions expenditures. Through this system the institutional budgets are assigned and monthly
reports are also presented allowing the Ministry of Finance to present the annual State Financial
Report in a timely fashion, present quarterly reports about the execution of the budget and submit
the proposed State Budget to the Parliament before 30th September each year.
This project also demonstrates that government transactions such as G2G (government-to-
government), G2B (government-to-business) and G2C (government-to-citizen) can be done more
effective and efficient when availed electronically so long as all the security mechanisms are taken.
This project is being implemented by the Ministry of Finance, through the Development Centre of
Financial Information Systems (CEDSIF).
Funding: World Bank
Geographic scope: Government agencies at national level
12.3.4 Mozambique eGovernment Communication Infrastructure Project (MEGCIP) (2010 –
2014)
MEGCIP aims to support the Government of Mozambique efforts to lower communication costs by
using international capacity to extend the geographic reach of the broadband networks and
contribute in improving the efficiency and transparency through e-Government applications. This
project is hosted at the Ministry of Science and Technology and consists of components focused on
communication infrastructure, policy and regulation, eGovernment applications and institutional
capacity building. Different parts of the project components are implemented by the Ministry of
Science and Technology, National ICT Institute (INTIC), The Ministry of Transport and
Communication and the Mozambican National Institute of Communications (INCM).
As part of this project the Electronic Transaction Law was prepared and other regulations put in
place.
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Funding: World Bank, with an implementation time frame of 2010 to 2015, total budget of
$30,000,000 USD
Geographic scope: National
12.3.5 Mobile ICT Unit
The Mozambican Mobile Unit provides training courses in districts isolated from ICT facilities to
address the problem of ICT skilled human resources across the country. The training is provided in
a mobile unit set up as a classroom, equipped with 10 computers. This mobile ICT technology
provides relevant programs for public servants and other community members. Within the Mobile
Unit, these groups can also access a variety of information via the Internet and email.
Funding: UNDP and Italian Government
Geographic scope: Districts
12.3.6 Provincial Digital Resource Centres (CPRDs)
Provincial Digital Resource Centres (CPRDs) concentrate ICT infrastructure, skills and investment
by providing a single entry point for ICT deployment and activity in the provinces, stimulate local
demand and use of ICT by all sectors of development and support capacity building and
development of local content. The first CPRDs were established in 2004 in the Provinces of
Inhambane and Tete by the ICT Policy Implementation Unit (UTICT), with funds provided by UNDP.
Based on demonstrating an impact in these provinces through the provision of ICT training courses,
computer maintenance, network administration, data base designs and many other ICT services
that were not offered at a provincial level further funding was provided by UNDP, Microsoft,
Government funds through the Public Sector Reform Program and Italian Government, to facilitate
the extension of these facilities in 6 more provinces (Nampula, Gaza, Sofala, Zambezia, Cabo
Delgado and Niassa) from 2005 to 2009.
Funds were secured through the STIFIMO project funded by the Finnish Government to establish
three additional centres in the remaining 3 provinces (Maputo, Maputo City and Manica). The
CPRDs have been working as local hubs with a multi-sectoral and multi-functional approach,
fostering linkages with local media to multiply the benefits of Internet connectivity and rural access
to information, reducing internal digital divide.
Funding: UNDP, Italian Government, Microsoft Corporation, Mozambican Government and
Finnish Government
Geographic scope: National
12.3.7 National System of Civil Registration (SINAREC)
This project aims to efficiently and effectively plan for and implement social services for citizens,
promote democracy through the availability of efficient and correct registers for voting, promote an
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efficient, effective and fair government, etc. The project will run in phases, with a Pilot Phase which
will apply a birth registration system with a unique ID number to a chosen set of 1000 peoples and
pilot the registered population as the core of the eGovernment initiative including investigating and
testing integrations and interoperability to the rest of the eGovernment projects.
Partners: Ministry of Science and Technology, Ministry of Justice, the Mozambican International
Bank and the Swedish Tax Agency
12.3.8 Biometric Driving Licence and Motor Vehicle Registration Systems
This system is used to produce new driving licence cards without the use of special equipment,
which has visible security features to facilitate a quick visual check, and it contains invisible and/or
confidential security features for a second-level check.
The Motor Vehicle Registration System is used to register motor vehicles, issue registration plates
and motor vehicle permits, deregistration of motor vehicles, change of vehicle particulars, change of
ownership of a motor vehicle, financial information and accountability, transaction auditing and
management information reports. The two systems developed to provide driving licences and
vehicle number plates will match the standard and format used in the SADC region.
Funding: World Bank
Geographic scope: National
12.3.9 Biometric ID Card and Passport
The new ID card is a huge step forward in solving problems of citizens who previously had to wait
for months or even years for their ID cards. It incorporates biometrical features, which are used to
establish a person's identity which can later be compared with stored reference data. The biometric
identifiers used in this card are the fingerprint and the facial image, making it a secure identification
document that is difficult to forge. The system was developed by Semlex, a Belgian company that
invested 50 million dollars in setting up the new ID system and passport. Semlex aims to recover
this investment from the sale of the ID cards, which will cost 180 meticais (about 6.6 US dollars)
each, while the new passports cost 3,000 MT, or 3,750 MT if the document needs to be issued
within two days. This is quite expensive when compared to the current statutory minimum wage for
agricultural workers (1,486 MT) and workers in financial services (2,745 MT). The old ID Cards and
passports remain valid until they expire.
12.3.10 Criminal Registration System
This application aims to facilitate the exchange of records between the provincial delegations and
central institutions about the criminal status of the citizens, which is then used to issue criminal
certifications in a more timely fashion. This certification is often required for new employments, bank
loans etc.
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Geographic scope: National
12.3.11 Multimedia Community Centres (MCC) Programme
This program aims at providing a means by which the community have access to information using
a wide range of information and communication technologies through a single point. This is also
serving to reduce the digital divide, reduce poverty by enabling people to solve development
problems that the community faces and strengthen the community capacity.
It is mainly implemented by the Ministry of Science and Technology but with a contribution of
different institutions such as the Centre of Informatics of the Eduardo Mondlane University (CIUEM),
the National ICT Institute (INTIC) and UNESCO.
Funding: World Bank, UNESCO, UNDP
Geographic coverage: National
12.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
12.4.1 National Priorities
National ICT Research Priorities include:
eHealth - Self-management of health; Improved diagnostics; Data collection; Health care
provision and Integrated Care; Research on HIV AIDS, Malaria, Tuberculosis, Meningitis,
Cholera; Parasitological research, Virology and molecular biology research. Institutions involved
include: UEM-Faculty of Medicine, Ministry of Health - National Institute for Health, Higher
Institute for Health Science and some NGOs
Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture - Sustainable agriculture and forestry; Sustainable
and competitive Agri-food sector for safe and healthy diet; Research on type of hydraulic
solutions that need to be put in place to overcome problems related to drought; Research on
agricultural logistics, market access, value chains and on services required by the technology
start-ups (finance, consultation, etc.). Institutions involved include: Ministry of Agriculture,
Agrarian Research Institute of Mozambique (IIAM), FAO and other NGOs
Energy - Alternative Energy Sources. Institutions involved include: Ministry for Energy
Future Internet - Networks, Software Services and Wireless Communications. Institutions
involved include: INTIC, INCM, CIUEM
Technology-enhanced Learning: Platforms and pedagogies; Capacity building programs
eGovernment - Research on service delivery transformation and use of ICTs and eGovernment
architectures as a catalytic force for public sector reform, Research on innovative services on
health and education, including science laboratories, and government information and content.
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ICT for Rural Development - Research on robust and well standardized, easy maintenance
access terminals for rural areas; Research on low cost wireless solutions to address digital
divide; Research on low cost public terminals, business models, universal access, shared
network infrastructures, security architectures; Research on community based content and
service needs, tailored to cultural and linguistic context of rural areas
Entrepreneurship & Socio-economic development - Promoting entrepreneurship using ICT;
Entrepreneurship for poverty alleviation
12.4.2 National Research Capacity
The following universities and research centres in Mozambique are undertaking ICT-related
initiatives:
Eduardo Mondlane University (UEM)108
Depts include: Electronic Engineering and Informatics Departments and CIUEM
Research areas include: Agriculture, Marine Science, Fishery, Building, Ecotourism, Health,
Social Sciences, Environmental Sustainability, Economic Development, Networks, Software
Services, Privacy and Trust and Wireless Communications
Mozambican ICT Institute (MICTI)
Research areas include: ICT, Environment, Science & Engineering Education / Training,
Manufacturing, Energy
Catholic University (UC)109
Depts include: Faculty of Engineering: Department of Information Technology
Research areas include: Sustainable Technological Development, Environment, Tourism,
Social Education
Higher Polytechnic and University Institute (ISPU)
Depts include: IT and Scientific Investigation
Research areas include: Social and Political Sciences, Rural and Economic Development
Pedagogical University (UP)110
Depts include: Social Science and Health
Research areas include: Social Sciences, Health, Technology-enhanced Learning
Higher Institute for Health Sciences
Research areas include: Public Health, Child and adolescent health/nutrition, Health
systems, parasitology, virology and molecular biology, evaluation and analysis of health
status, policy analyse and formulation, training and Post-graduate in health sciences
108 http://www.uem.mz/ 109 http://www.ucm.ac.mz/ 110 http://www.up.ac.mz
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São Tomás University (USTM) 111
Research activities related to the use of ICT and Entrepreneurship for poverty alleviation
Mozambican Higher Institute of Science and Technology (ISCTEM)112
12.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders and discussion during the IST-Africa H2020 Workshop on
19 November 2014 the following thematic areas are considered to be important in the context of the
ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Topics Partners include
eHealth / mHealth Health Information Systems/Electronic Health Records; Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH); Health diagnosis and Surveillance - Malaria, hypertension, diabetes, cancer, cholera (during rainy seasons); Mechanisms and alarms to deal with compliance issues (remembering to take medication, attend clinic etc); Telemedicine and remote diagnosis
National Institute for Health; Ministry of Health; Eduardo Mondlane University (Faculty of Medicine); Higher Institute for Health Sciences; Pedagogical University
eAgriculture Crop Management; Agri-food based applications
IIAM (Agricultural Research Institute); Eduardo Mondlane University; Pedagogical University; CIDE (Centre for Research and Development of plants):
Technology-enhanced Learning
Distance Learning; mLearning National Institute of Distance Learning; Pedagogical University
Environment Water Management; Agro Climatic Information for farmers
National Institute of Meteorology; Eduardo Mondlane University; IIA (Water Research Institute); University of Zambeze
eGovernment Public Service Delivery, mGovernment services
INTIC
12.4.4 Mapping to H2020 Themes
The initial mapping to Horizon 2020 Research areas is summarised below:
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Future Internet INTIC: Networks, Wireless Communication
Eduardo Mondlane University (CIUEM): Networks,
111 http://www.ustm.ac.mz/ 112 http://www.isctem.ac.mz/
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Software and Services, Wireless Communication
Content Technologies & Information Management
National Institute for Education Development (INDE): Technologies for Language, Learning, Digital Preservation
Pedagogical University: Technology-enhanced Learning
INTIC: Content & Information Management
Instituto Nacional das Comunicações de Moçambique (INCM)
Catholic University (Dept of Information Technology)
Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health Eduardo Mondlane University (Medicine
Higher Institute for Health Sciences: Public Health, child and adolescent health/nutrition; Health systems, parasitology, virology and molecular biology, evaluation and analysis of health status, policy analyse and formulation, training and Post-graduate in health sciences
Pedagogical University
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture Agrarian Research Institute (IIAM): Sustainable agriculture - Cereals; Roots and tubers Grain legumes; Cashew nuts; cotton; Big and small ruminants; poultry and pigs; Animal husbandry; Natural resource management including soils; and Forest Technology transfer and training
CIDE (Centre for Research and Development of plants): Research on native plants, photochemistry
Pedagogical University: Study of medical plants
Climate Action, Environment, Resource Efficiency and Raw Materials
IIA (Water Research Institute): Water Research (Disaster Management, Water & Sanitation, Ground water)
University of Zambeze: Water Quality, Environmental Quality, Socio-economic impact of gold mining (Environmental risks)
National Institute of Meteorology
Eduardo Mondlane University UEM
Secure, Clean and Efficient Energy Ministry of Energy: Alternative sources of fuel; Wireless energy sources
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Level of Research Maturity
Mozambique has research capacity and a track record in collaborative research through
participation in more than 20 FP7 projects, securing research funding of over €3.36 million and one
project to date under Horizon 2020.
The level of research maturity in steadily strengthening, supported by the experience of being
involved in internationally funded research and the impact of bi-lateral projects funded by a number
of EU Member States. This is despite the difficulty created by the linguistic challenges for a
Lusophone country trying to participate in international research projects. IST-Africa has made a
significant contribution in this regard by facilitating relationship building with key stakeholders,
exchange of experiences in Europe and Africa, focusing international attention on Information
Society and ICT related challenges and opportunities in IST-Africa Partner Countries and providing
opportunities to engage with international research stakeholders both in Europe and in Africa.
There is now a considerable sense of urgency in the Government and in the research community to
build on recent successes and momentum achieved to date. While the primary focus is still on
technology adoption and developing applications, there is an increasing focus on strengthening
research capacity within the country, and facilitating the continued development of post-graduate
programmes. Mozambique is one of a number of IST-Africa Partner Countries (including Uganda,
Namibia and South Africa) which is investing in funding national research programmes.
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13. REPUBLIC OF NAMIBIA
13.1 Introduction
Namibia is situated in South Western Africa, bordered by
the Atlantic Ocean in the west, Angola and Zambia in the
north, Botswana and Zimbabwe in the east and South
Africa in the South. The country has a surface area of
824,292 km² with 14 administrative divisions. The
population as at July 2015 was estimated at 2.212 million
inhabitants with a literacy rate of 81.9%113. Sixty-four
percent of the total population is between the ages of 15 -
64, with a median age of 22 years. Windhoek, the capital
city, has a population of 368,000 (2015, CIA World
FactBook). Namibia is multi-cultural with English as the
official language, and 16 other languages spoken. Namibia
is one of the first countries to incorporate protection of the environment into its constitution with
approx 14% of its land being protected including the Namib Desert coastal strip.
Namibia is an arid country with generally low and highly variable rainfall. Agriculture, largely
subsistence, is the main economic activity for the rural population, contributing about 6.3% of GDP.
Other activities include Industry (29.9%) and Services (63.8%) based on 2014 estimates. Diamonds,
Minerals, Fish, Livestock and Livestock by-products are the country’s principal exports.
In relation to Communications, according to figures provided by the Communication Regulatory
Authority of Namibia (CRAN) there were 181,696 fixed phone subscribers, 2.3 million mobile phone
subscribers and 1.2 million Internet Users in June 2013.
In terms of ICT infrastructure, the telecommunications backbone switching and transmission
network was 100 percent digitalised in 1999 with state-of-the-art underground fibre-optic cabling,
which facilitates access to advanced technologies, products, applications and services. Direct
communication satellite links exist with neighbouring countries as well as with the UK, USA and
Germany. The West African Cable System (WACS) was launched in April 2012, providing Namibia's
first link to global submarine cable network. The optic fibre cables have interconnected all major
towns with a fibre point of presence. Fibre cables have also been extended to the borders of
Angola, Zambia, Botswana and South Africa. The country has also deployed an IP/MPLS network
country wide with points of presence in all towns. Telecom is further investing in a nationwide
terrestrial fibre backbone infrastructure with the aim to increase capacity on existing fibre
infrastructure to fully utilise the WASC capacity. Modern infrastructure includes the rolling out of the
113 CIA World FactBook
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Government’s Regional ICT Hubs, the High-speed (3G/4G LTE) network. Namibia is also connected
to the South African Far East (SAFE) submarine cable through South Africa.
Namibia has three cellular operators MTC, Paratus Telecom and TN mobile. MTC launched 4G
during 2012. MTCs 3G network is deployed in over 95 percent of the country making access to the
Internet available through their 3G devices and internet enabled phones, in partnership with Nokia
Siemens and Motorola. This has been an enhancement of the existing GSM/GPRS/EDGE
broadband technologies with increasing international capacity through VSAT Internet gateways.
In March 2014, Namibia established its own Internet exchange point (IXP) in collaboration with the
African Union Commission through the African Internet Exchange System (AXIS) Initiative.
Namibia has two main public institutions: University of Namibia and Namibia University of Science
and Technology, 36 vocational training centres and 9 skills development centres, one private
University and 1,450 schools. There are also several private colleges and open colleges operating
in Namibia.
13.2 ICT Background
The Namibian Government recognises the value of Information and Communications Technology
(ICT) as an industry to support socio-economic growth. The Namibian Government’s Vision 2030
aims at transforming Namibia into a knowledge-based society and leveraging knowledge and
technology for the benefit of the people of Namibia. To achieve that Vision, four Development Plans
have been formulated. The NDP4 desired outcome for the ICT sector in is to ensure that by 2017,
adequate ICT infrastructure will be in place to facilitate economic competitiveness through
innovation, research and development: Availability of latest technologies score improves to 6.0 from
5.5. To this end, the ICT sector developed its Five year Sectoral Plan (2012 -2017) which is
cascaded annually to the Annual Sectoral Execution Plan.
The Government of the Republic of Namibia envisaged that by embracing the development of ICT,
Namibians will benefit through:
Access and availability of information that assist them in their daily lives
Increased competitiveness of business and commerce in the global market place
Establishment of an environment conducive to the development of Namibian-based ICT
providers that are competitive internationally, and create opportunities for employment and
economic diversification
The Government of Namibia aims to ensure that every citizen and resident shall have affordable
access to high quality information and communication services. To achieve Vision 2030, Namibia
needs to accelerate the use of ICT in Namibia and grow the sector, hence the specific objectives of
the ICT policy are:
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To enhance the market and regulatory structure of ICT in Namibia, to fully liberalise (open,
competitive market and private sector participation) all telecommunications services by 2010,
following a controlled process
To establish streamlined, efficient and effective regulation of the ICT industry on a fully
transparent, technology neutral and competitively balanced basis
To provide universal access to information and communication facilities in Namibia for all
communities (to telephones, Internet and multi-media services) by 2011, by establishing an
access point in every community or village.
To enable affordable prices for telecommunications services, particularly low income groups by
2010
To enable profitable investment opportunities in all segments of the market by 2010
To successfully implement government ICT initiatives in education and training by 2013
To successfully implement e-government initiatives by 2015
To establish Namibia as a first class regional ICT hub that will contribute towards job creation by
2013
A dedicated Ministry of ICT was established in 2008. Namibia has made good strides in developing
the ICT sector. The overarching Information Technology policies include the IT Policy, Broadcasting
Policy Communications 2009 and Telecommunications Policy, Postal Policy. The Communications
Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN), which was foreseen under the Communications Act of
2009, was operationalised in 2011. The National Development plan for 2013/2017 aims to have
“adequate ICT infrastructure in place to facilitate economic development and competitiveness
through innovation, research and development” by 2017. As a result CRAN has undertaken an
assessment of current eInfrastructure to develop a plan for necessary ICT infrastructure, digital
literacy and supporting ICT-skilled workforce development (CRAN 2014 Annual Report).
Higher Education Institutions are the major ICT hub for servers, computers, e-learning media
system and Internet access through narrowband and broadband technologies offered by Telecom of
Namibia, MTC, and other service providers, including Xnet.
13.3 Current ICT Initiatives and projects
ICT Initiatives are currently ongoing at national level in the areas of eEducation (TECH/NA! ICT in
Education Initiative, XNet, eLearning Centre (eLC), ICT Centre of Excellence, Namibia-South Africa
Joint Calls for Research), eHealth (Integrated Health Care Information Management System) and
eGovernment (eInfrastructure, Electronic Voting System, Human Capital Management System,
National Population Registration System, Integrated Financial Management System, Integrated Tax
Administration systems, Capacity Building, Government Portal, Electronic Documents and Record
Management System).
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13.3.1 TECH /NA! , Namibia’s ICT in Education Initiative
TECHN/NA!, Namibia’s ICT in Education Initiative is a comprehensive implementation strategy for
the integration of ICTs across the entire education sector blending local expertise and international
support to ensure that all educational institutions are able to efficiently utilize ICTs to meet their
overall educational objectives in order to equip, educate and empower administrators, staff,
teachers, and learners in ICT literacy and ICT integration skills to help bridge the digital divide with
communities and meet the goals of Vision 2030 to fulfils Namibia ambition to become a knowledge-
based society by 2030. It is a sub-programme under ETSIP.
Activities include training of teachers, ICT Literacy and Computer Studies workshops in all 13
regions in the country, and the procurement of ICT equipment for schools, libraries and Teachers’
Resource Centres in various regions of the country.
Funding sources: This programme is funded by the Namibian government, with local and
international support including funding from EDF10.
Geographic coverage: National
13.3.2 eHealth System
The eHealth System, also known as the Integrated Health Care Information Management System
(IHCIMS) was launched in 2011 and the system was designed to cater for the day-to-day
operational activities and services rendered by hospitals to patients. Medical information of patients
will be stored on the Integrated Health Care Information Management System in digital format. Each
patient will be given a unique number, which can be used across all 34 government hospitals in
Namibia. The system is implemented at Windhoek Central, Katutura and Oshakati hospital. It is
necessary to put network infrastructure into some other hospital locations prior to deploying the
system.
Funding sources: This programme is funded by the Namibian government, with local and
international support
13.3.3 ICT Centre of Excellence
An Information Communications Technology (ICT) Centre of Excellence was established at the
University of Namibia in 2011 by Telecom Namibia. The objective of the centre is to promote a
culture of excellence in research in telecommunications and information technology, and to create
an opportunity for graduates to conduct research in a world class environment. Telecom Namibia
provided information technology specialists to form part of the team that will mould students at the
facility. The centre is expected to boost ICT research and development in the country and to narrow
the gap between academia and industry in Namibia’s Telecommunications, Information and
Technology sector. Telecom provided 10 computers, a server, Cisco switches and routers and office
equipment. It will also provide at least four research scholarships to promising Namibian masters
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and doctoral telecommunications and IT students. Telecom also invited MTC and power utilities
Nampower and Nampost, to come on board.
Funding sources: This programme is funded by Telecom Namibia and University of Namibia
13.3.4 eGovernance projects
The Namibian government is implementing a number of projects under its e-governance
programme. These projects are implemented through the office of the Prime Minister and their
coverage spread across the entire public service and are funded by the Namibian government with
local and international support. Recently the government launched its eGovernment Strategic Action
Plan. The E-Government Strategic Action Plan outlines the tools that need to be promoted by
government to make it more accessible and accountable to citizens.
The project was initiated during February 2010 and the first phase of the project assessed the
readiness of the Government of Namibia to embark on the e-Governance journey. The survey
analysis resulted in the drafting of the Strategic Action Plan, which comprises of programmes and
projects at high level. It also outlined the required budget for implementation. The strategic areas
that have been identified include the following:
Impact and Visibility - this will include all those activities that will directly the lives of citizens and
increase effective visibility of the government services.
Collaboration and Networking - this will include all activities that will ensure that e-Government
in the country is a truly national effort requiring collaboration and sharing among the different
OMAs.
Consistency and Standardization - this will include all activities that will ensure that e-
Government efforts across OMAs are consistent in their approach.
Training, Education and Research - this will include all activities required to ensure that
adequate capacities are created and enhanced among all stakeholders.
Foundation Support - this will consist of all activities that are required to ensure that all
necessary support structures are put in place for the e-Government effort to be successfully run
in the country.
Fifteen programmes were outlined in the eGSAP. Ten eGovernment services were identified to be
piloted during 2014 - 2018 including an iRecruitment and Employee Self-service process;
Processing of permits and civic services; Business registration; Intergrated Tax Administration
System; Deeds Registration Process; Issuing of Permits related to Water effluents, plan and animal
import and export and forestry produce; Hunting Permits; Mining Licenses Applications and
Renewals; Namibia Students Financial Assistant Fund and eHealth System.
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13.3.5 Namibia-South Africa Cooperation - Joint Calls for Research
Within the remit of the bilateral STI Cooperation agreement between Namibia and South Africa, the
two countries publish joint calls for research on various thematic areas including ICT. Joint research
proposals are submitted to relevant authorities in both countries for review and successful projects
are co-funded by both countries. As a result of a joint call, 8 out of 30 projects were funded for the
year 2013/14 were in the field of ICT.
13.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
13.4.1 National Priorities
National ICT Research Priorities include: Digital Content, Technology-enhanced Learning,
eGovernment, eHealth, eAgriculture & Fisheries including Water; Entrepreneurship, Mining &
Geosciences, Biotechnology, Logistics and Space Science.
Key areas for research cooperation include: Digital Libraries and digital preservation (Indigenous
Knowledge), Technology Enhanced Learning; Digital Content; ICT for Environmental Sustainability
(Services & Climate Change Adaptation) and Energy Efficiency.
13.4.2 National Research Capacity
The table below provides an overview of universities with ICT/Engineering Course
Institution Location Total Students
ICT/Engineering Department(s)
ICT/Engineering Teaching Staff
Post-Graduate Programmes (Masters)
Windhoek Department of Computer Science
13 Masters of Science - Information Technology
University of Namibia
Ongwediva
13,000
Engineering and Information Technology
8 -
Polytechnic of Namibia
Windhoek 11,000 School of Information Technology
10 Masters in Information Technology
International University of Management
Windhoek 6,000 Information Technology and Systems Management
6 -
Research in Namibia is predominately carried out within the two main Higher Education Institutions:
University of Namibia114
Depts include: Faculty of Engineering & Information Technology - Department of Electronics
and Telecommunication Engineering; Faculty of Health Sciences; Faculty of Agriculture;
Multidisciplinary Research Centre - Science, Technology, Innovation Division & Social
Sciences Division
Research areas include:
o Health - Research on malaria elimination, Epidemiology and active case detection of
malaria in Engela district;
114 http://www.unam.na/
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o Faculty of Science - Bio prospecting of Namibian ethno botanicals for anti-HIV activities,
Application of biotechnology towards conservation of different Namibian endangered
species, Application of semi martingales to finance;
o SANUMARC - Aerosol robotic network group, Scientific committee on Oceanic
Research, Spaces programme;
o Domestication of marama beans, Mixed cropping or intercropping of drought adapted
pearl millet, sorghum and other crops with the flood adapted rice crops (ogongo);
o Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources - Community Conservation Fisheries in
KAZA Project (EU funded project), Impalila Tourism Fisheries Management of the
Kasaya Channel, Sikunga Conservancy Tourism Fisheries Management (MCA funded
projects), Development of a Fisheries Management Plan for the Okavango River
(SAREP funded project), Improved Knowledge of Aquatic Knowledge Systems
supporting Fisheries, Development of Integrated Strategies for Sustainable Fisheries and
Improved Fisheries Management (SASSCAL funded project), Zoobenthes Survey in the
Walvis Bay (Walvis Bay Municipality funded project
Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST)115
Depts include: School of Information Technology; School of Health and Applied Science;
School of Engineering
ICT Research Groups include: ICT for Development: Living Lab; Community Indigenous
Knowledge Management System; Mobile Future Lab for Research; Namibia Business
Innovation Centre
Research areas include:
o School of Information Technology - Community-centred localisation; Mobile Futures Lab;
Mobile Content and Applications for Entrepreneurship Development; Forensic
Computing and Security Research Group; Health Informatics Research Cluster; Mobile
Sensor Data Processing
o School of Engineering - Renewable Energy; Water Resource Management;
Manufacturing Systems; Mining Sustainability and Environmental Impact; Windhoek and
its Environs-Architectural Perspective
o School of Health and Applied Sciences - Health and medical sciences research
o School of Natural Resources and Tourism - Development and application of spatial
technologies and appropriate tools; Ecosystems services and biodiversity; Land,
Agriculture and Water; Wildlife and Tourism
o School of Economics and Finance - Managing implication on the use of technology in
higher learning institutions; Analysing the socio economic impact of investing
115 http://www.polytechnic.edu.na/
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pensionable funds in economic development activities; A small macro-econometric
model for Namibia
o School of Humanities - Exploring Agency for survival during a crisis; Bridging the gender
gap: African feminism; Conflict management
o Centre for Cooperative Education - Human Resource Development (Pedagogy and e-
portfolio development); National Strategy/Policy for Cooperative Education
o Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Institute - Low Cost National Wind Resource
Assessment in Namibia; Investigating the Effectiveness of Introducing Energy Shops;
Solar Power; Improvement of Regulations; Auditing and Energy Marketing Services;
Green Rating Tools; Techno-socio-economic Survey of Energy Efficiency; Energy
System Model for Namibia; Regulatory Framework for Renewable Energy Procurement
Processes
13.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders the following thematic areas are considered to be
important in the context of the ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Topics Partners
eHealth / mHealth Health Information Systems/Electronic Health Records; Mobile Applications to support reproductive health; Mobile applications to educate youth on health issues
University of Namibia (School of Medicine); Namibia University of Science and Technology (School of Health and Applied Science); Ministry of Health
eAgriculture Mobile Applications for farmers - animal tracking, tips on livestock and crop production
University of Namibia (Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources); Namibia University of Science and Technology (School of Natural Resources and Spatial Sciences), Ministry of Water, Agriculture & Forestry (Directorate of Research & Training)
Technology-enhanced Learning
Distance Learning and eLearning solutions; Mobile and game applications for mathematics learning
University of Namibia; Namibia University of Science and Technology
eGovernment Public Service Delivery University of Namibia; Namibia University of Science and Technology
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13.4.4 Mapping to H2020 Themes
The initial mapping to Horizon 2020 Research areas is summarised below
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Future Internet Namibia University of Science and Technology (School of Information Technology): Cloud Computing, Wireless Communication, Mobile Sensor Data Processing
Content Technologies & Information Management
Namibia University of Science and Technology (School of Information Technology): Digital Preservation, Technology-enhanced Learning, Mobile Learning
Robotics University of Namibia (SANUMARC): Aerosol robotic network group
Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health University of Namibia (Faculty of Health Sciences): Malaria
Namibia University of Science and Technology (School of Health and Applied Sciences): Health and Medical Sciences Research
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture University of Namibia (Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources): Crops, Fisheries Management
Namibia University of Science and Technology (School of Natural Resources and Tourism): Ecosystems services and biodiversity, Land, Agriculture, Water
Energy Namibia University of Science and Technology (School of Engineering): Renewable Energy
Namibia University of Science and Technology (Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Institute): Wind Resources, Solar Power, Green Rating Tools, Energy Efficiency
Climate Action, Environment, Resource Efficiency and Raw Materials
University of Namibia: Water Management
Namibia University of Science and Technology (School of Engineering): Water Resource Management, Mining Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Inclusive, Innovative and Reflective Societies
Namibia University of Science and Technology (School of Information Technology): Indigenous Knowledge in relation to Cultural Resources
University of Namibia: eGovernance
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Secure Societies Namibia University of Science and Technology (School of Information Technology): Trustworthy ICT
Level of Research Maturity
Namibia like Botswana is a middle-income country also trying to diversify its economy, and attract
foreign direct investment. Namibia is gradually increasing the focus on research and building a track
record in collaborative research through participation in 11 FP7 projects and 1 H2020 project to
date. There is a commitment to strengthen the research capacity within the country, and especially
in facilitating the continued development of post-graduate programmes and involvement in cross-
border research.
The University of Namibia and Namibia University of Science and Technology are the primary
research institutions in Namibia. An Information Communications Technology (ICT) Centre of
Excellence was established at the University of Namibia in 2011 by Telecom Namibia. The centre is
expected to boost ICT research and development in the country and to narrow the gap between
academia and industry in Namibia’s Telecommunications, Information and Technology sector.
Namibia has launched a number of Joint Calls for Research focused on a number of themes
including ICT with South Africa under their bilateral Science Technology and Innovation Agreement
since 2011. Eight out of 30 projects were funded for the year 2013/14 in the field of ICT.
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14. REPUBLIC OF SENEGAL
14.1 Introduction
Senegal is the most advanced Western African country
along the Atlantic Ocean, with major sea and air routes to
Europe, other African countries and the Americas.
Covering an area of 196,722 km², it is bordered on the
north by Mauritania, east by Mali, south by Guinea and
Guinea Bissau, west of the Gambia and a coastline along
the Atlantic Ocean for 500 km. Senegal is a flat country
with sandy soil not exceeding 130m except at the south-
eastern border of Republic of Guinea. Three rivers cross
the country from east to west: Senegal (1700 km) north,
Gambia (750 km) and Casamance (300 km) south.
Senegal consists of 14 administrative regions: Dakar,
Diourbel, Fatick, Kaffrine, Kaolack, Kedougou, Kolda, Louga, Matam, Saint-Louis, Sedhiou,
Tambacounda, Thies and Ziguinchor. The population as at July 2015 was estimated at 13.975
million inhabitants, with a literacy rate of 57.7% (CIA World Factbook). Fifty four percent of the total
population is between 15 and 64 years of age. Dakar (550 km²), the capital, is a peninsula in the far
West with a population of 3.52 million (2015 CIA World Factbook). The official language is French,
with English being used in business. The national languages include Diola, Malinke, the Pular,
Serer, Soninke and Wolof.
The Republic of Senegal is a secular, democratic and social country. It ensures equality before the
law for all citizens, without distinction of origin, race, sex or religion. GDP is primarily driven by
services, industry and agriculture. Its natural resources include: petroleum, iron ore, zircon and gold.
Senegal has a good telecommunication infrastructure and Internet access is cheaper than in other
African countries. International bandwidth for Internet access is currently 12.4Gbps. There are 3
mobile providers (Orange, Tigo and Expresso). According to figures published by L’Autorite de
Regulation des Telecommunications et des Postes (ARTP), as at 30 September 2015 there were
303,653 fixed phone lines (317,653 September 2014) and 14.908 million phones (14.35 million in
September 2014). There were 7.348 million Internet subscribers as at 30 September 2015
compared with 6.675 million in September 2014.
In terms of ICT Infrastructure, three submarine cables (Atlantis 2, SAT3/WASC/SAFE and Africa
Coast) connect Senegal to the rest of the world. The national backbone is under construction. All
regions and Departments in Senegal are connected via optical fibre.
There are five public Universities, seven private Universities, five public Institutes or Schools of
Higher Education and 141 private Higher Education Institutions.
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14.2 ICT Background
One of the objectives clearly articulated by the Government is to make Senegal a regional leader in
the production of value-added services supported by ICT, in order to improve its position in the
global economy. To achieve these objectives, Senegal has developed a multitude of programs
related to Information Technology and Communication (ICT). In fact, for over two decades, State
Authorities have considered ICT as an essential part of development.
Since 2000 a national strategy for developing ICT was defined and a State Computer Science
Bureau and Ministry responsible for ICT has been established.
ICT is used widely in secondary and third level institutions. There is good interconnection in
Government and administration buildings to facilitate the provision of services. The Universal
Service Fund considers Internet and telephony to be an integral part of a universal service.
14.3 Current ICT Initiatives and projects
ICT Initiatives are currently ongoing at national level in the areas of eGovernment (eSenegal,
Universal Service Fund, Social Impact of ICT in Senegal), Digital Divide (Multimedia Community
Centres Programme, Senegal Observatory on Information Systems, Networks and Info highways)
Research (Centre de Recherche et d’Essai Programme, Scan ICT project), eInfrastructures (Grid
Computing project, Brain Gain Initiative, Education and Research Network, Migration from Analogue
to Digital Broadcasting project), Entrepreneurship (CTIC Dakar ICT Incubator) and eEducation
(Virtual University of Senegal).
14.3.1 Legal and Institutional Framework
After strengthening the infrastructure, the Senegal authorities prepared the legislative and
regulatory component of new technologies to create a legal environment favourable to their
development. The first step was the establishment by law No. 2001-15 of December 27, 2001, as
amended, of the Code of Telecommunications and the Regulatory Agency for Telecommunications
and Posts (ARTP) responsible for providing the telecommunications sector with an effective and
transparent regulatory framework, promoting fair competition to the benefit of users of
telecommunications networks and services.
Another key step in the mentoring process of ICT development in Senegal was the creation of the
State Information Technology Agency (ADIE). Decree N° 2004-1038 of 23 July 2004 mandates
ADIE to stimulate public action in the treatment and dissemination of information in accordance with
international legal and technical standards for quality, availability, safety and performance. For this
purpose, ADIE launched a process that led to the adoption of appropriate laws and regulations in
2005.
Several laws were adopted and promulgated.
Law No. 2008-10 of January 25, 2008 on orientation law on information society
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Law No. 2008-08 of January 25, 2008 on electronic transactions
Law No. 2008-11 of January 25, 2008 on Cybercrime
Law No. 2008-12 of January 25, 2008 on the protection of personal data
Law No. 2008-49 of September 23, 2008 establishing a voluntary contribution of one percent
(1%) on public procurement of goods and digital services
Law No. 2008-46 of September 3, 2008 establishing a royalty on access or use of public
telecommunications network (RUTEL)
Law No. 2008-41 of August 20, 2008 on cryptology.
The Privacy Protection Commission (CDP) is an Independent Administrative Authority (IAA)
established under Law No. 2008-12 of 25 January 2008 on the protection of personal data.
2011 marked the adoption of a telecommunication code implementing most of the directives
adopted by the Economic and Monetary Union of West Africa (UEMOA) and additional acts that the
Treaty of the Economic Community of African States (ECOWAS) to create a legal environment
conducive to the emergence of a regional market.
A National Commission of Cryptology, attached to the General Secretariat of the Presidency of the
Republic, and whose permanent secretariat is provided by the Central Technical Services of
Numbers and Security of Information Systems (STCC) was established.
14.3.2 E-Senegal: E-government from Senegal and ICTs at the service of citizens
E-Vision Senegal aims to put the citizen and business concerns within the government, to allow all
citizens to access information, to meet the performance needs of the State and actionable
information officers.
The following priorities are addressed:
the development of communications infrastructure linking all government departments
setting up a government information system integrating the various information sources of the
administration
definition of organizational entities responsible for managing the IT policy
Results include:
Interconnect by WIMAX 665 administrative building located in 35 departments
Local Network (LAN) in all 665 buildings using WiFi or Ethernet.
Videoconference platform between 11 regions
Interconnection of universities and research centres
Data centre building
Funding: Senegal, China (intranet), Korea (wimax), France (demarches administratives)
Geographic coverage: National
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14.3.3 Universal Service Fund: Consider Internet and telephony as integral part of a
universal service
The major objectives of the Universal Service Fund are to:
bridge the access gap in networks and telecommunications services (telephone and Internet)
throughout the national territory by 2012;
promote the economic and social development of rural populations and those in disadvantaged
areas through the provision of appropriate ICT applications;
expand access to the Internet via broadband infrastructure to shared resources in social projects
and Community as the interconnection of academic, health institutions and schools, facilities,
etc.
promote the creation of knowledge communities in the territory, relying in particular on the
government infrastructure and public or private initiatives.
The new fund for the development of universal telecommunications service (FDSUT) was initiated
with ICTC (ICT growth Accompanist) as a competition to awaken the creative genius of young
Senegalese entrepreneurs who are active in ICT.
Funding: Telecommunications operators
Geographic coverage: National
14.3.4 Multimedia Community Centres (MCC) Programme
Thirty Multimedia community centres were established between 2011 and 2013 to facilitate access
to ICT by communities.
Implemented by the ICT Ministry with the cooperation of UNESCO
Geographic coverage: National
14.3.5 Centre de Recherche et d’Essai (CRE) Programme
CRE are units of development of research based on the promotion and the provision of means of
applications of scientific and technological innovations for well-being. They provide an interface
between citizens and the R&D sector and use ICT as a main activity. Seventeen research centres
are already installed by October 2014 with a further ten planned for 2015.
Implemented by the Ministry in charge of Scientific Research & Higher Education116
Funding source: Government of Senegal
Geographic coverage: National
116 www.recherche.gouv.sn
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14.3.6 Education and Research Network (SnRER) Initiative
The main goal of SnRER is to build a national and regional academic infrastructure to:
Support research and science collaboration;
Build a common information system and data center for higher education in the country;
Share resources and applications: grid-computing, e-learning, VoIP, videoconference, digital
library, e-health, etc.
Connect to other regional or international academic network (WACREN, GEANT, INTERNET2,
etc.)
SnRER has made a lot of progress since its establishment by the Ministry of Higher Education and
Scientific Research and its mandate to host the regional NOC by WACREN in March 2011. In April
2011 training and capacity building was undertaken in collaboration with NSRC and the University
of Oregon. During April – July 2011, the campus network for 5 public universities was designed.
During 2015 all five public universities were interconnected via optical fibre.
All Public University Campuses are connected by free Wifi Internet access. Pedagogical campus will
soon have a bandwidth of 2 x 150MB.
Geographic coverage and time frame: National/regional, ongoing project
14.3.7 Senegal Observatory on Information Systems, Networks and Info highways
(OSIRIS)117
Established in March 1998 by a group of people working in the private sector, higher education,
administration and associations, the Observatory on Information Systems, Networks and Info
highways Senegal (OSIRIS) is a non-profit association.
OSIRIS raises awareness, informs and provides analysis on all matters relating to the use and
appropriation of Information Communication Technology and more generally on the development of
Information Society in Senegal and Africa.
OSIRIS has the following objectives:
Contribute to the development of the Information Society based in particular on the
recommendations of the Initiative African Society in the Age of Information adopted by the
United Nations Economic Commission for Africa;
Promote the use and ownership of information technology and communication;
Identify all initiatives in information technology and communication and to encourage synergies;
Inform policy makers of different sectors such as private citizens on the opportunities and issues
related to information technology and communication;
117 www.osiris.sn
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Promote international cooperation in general and sub-regional in particular in the field of
information technology and communications.
14.3.8 CTIC Dakar: An ICT Incubator118
CTIC Dakar was opened in March 2011 to assist ICT companies, Information Technology and
Communication, as well as project leaders, in their stages of creation, development and growth. It
offers businesses and to project the ICT infrastructure and services necessary to ensure sustained
growth and sustainable. CTIC Dakar is an example of Public Private Partnership led by the ICT
Incubators Foundation of Senegal (FICTIS). Partners and sponsors include both public and private
international organizations.
14.3.9 E-ICT project119: projects related to agriculture and livestock in the Sahel region
The E-ICT project is a multi-stakeholder initiative coordinated by the ICVolunteers organization. The
project is being implemented in Senegal and Mali (Sahel region), with support from Francophone
Information Highway Fund and a range of other partners.
Objectives:
Develop training in ICT for better farm business management;
Raise awareness about a better management of pastoralism and health issues;
Promote the adoption of practices focused on the sustainable development farming through a
better accountability of breeders including an awareness of environmentally friendly agriculture
and biodiversity;
Promote the use and marketing of products and by-products of farming;
An inventory and the establishment of a monitoring system of animals and pasture, interface
"Green Network";
Enhance food security
14.3.10 Social Impact of Information Technology Communication in Senegal
This project is focused on development of mobile payments, Internet use in the campaign and
Interconnection of all government infrastructures (fixed telephone, mobile, Internet). The United
Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD) is an autonomous research institute
within the UN system that undertakes multidisciplinary research and policy analysis on the social
dimensions of contemporary development issues. ADIE aimed to reduce the phone bill of the state
in half during 2014, from 22 to 11 billion CFA francs
Implementing department: UNRISD
Geographic scope and time frame: National; ongoing.
118 www.cticdakar.sn 119 www.e-tic.net
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14.3.11 Scan ICT Project (IDRC)
Scan-ICT is an activity carried out by the Research Centre for International Development Research
Centre (IDRC) in collaboration with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA). This
is an ambitious proposal with long-term aims to mobilise the support needed to create a phased
comprehensive African capability to collect and manage key information needed to support
investment increasingly important technologies information and communication technologies (ICT)
to help African countries become an Information Societies.
Implementing department: IDRC, UNECA
Geographic scope and time frame: National; ongoing.
14.3.12 Senegal Virtual University
The Ministry of Higher Education and Research established the Senegal Virtual University to
facilitate efficient and accessible Higher Education through a digital open space in each Department
in the country. Teaching commenced in February 2014 with over 2,000 students enrolled for the first
academic year,
Geographic scope and time frame: National; ongoing.
14.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
14.4.1 National Research Capacity
Senegal has seven public institutions of higher education:
Université Cheikh Anta de Dakar120
Université Gaston Berger de Saint-Louis121
Université de Thiès122
Université Alioune DIOP de Bambey123
Université Assane Seck de Ziguinchor124
Université Virtuelle du Sénégal
Ecole Polytechnique de Thiès125
and the main research laboratories in Senegal are located in two universities:
1. Université Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar
a. Laboratoire d'Imagerie Médicale et de Bio-informatique
120 http://www.ucad.sn/ 121 http://www.ugb.sn/ 122 http://www.univ-thies.sn 123 http://www.bambey.univ.sn/ 124 http://www.univ-zig.sn/ 125 http://ept.sn/
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b. Laboratoire d'Informatique, Réseaux et Télécommunications (LIRT)
c. Laboratoire de Traitement de l'Information (LTI)
d. Mathématiques de la Décision et d'Analyse numérique
e. Equipe de Cryptologie
f. Equipe de Codage
g. Equipe Réseaux, Services et Télécommunications
2. Université Gaston Berger de Saint-Louis
a. Laboratoire d'Analyse Numérique et d'Informatique (LANI)
b. Laboratoire d'Électronique, Informatique, Télécommunications et Énergies Renouvelables
(LEITER)
14.4.2 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders the following thematic areas are considered to be
important in the context of the ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Partners include
eHealth Université Gaston Berger; Université Cheikh Anta Diop
Environment Université Cheikh Anta Diop; Ecole Polytechnique de Thiès; Ecole Superieure Polytechnique de Dakar-UCAD
14.4.3 Mapping to H2020 Themes
The initial mapping to Horizon 2020 Research areas is summarised below
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Advanced Computing Université Cheikh Anta Diop: Sensors
Future Internet Université Gaston Berger: Networking
Content Technologies & Information Management
Université Gaston Berger: Language Technologies, Semantic Web, Intelligent Technology
Université de Bambey: Information Management
Universite de Ziguinchor: Information Management
Université Cheikh Anta Diop: Technology-enhanced Learning & Digitisation
Université Gaston Berger: Digital processing & Digitisation
Ecole Superieure Polytechnique de Dakar-UCAD: Technology-Enhanced Learning
Robotics Université Cheikh Anta Diop: Robotics
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Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health Université Gaston Berger: Mathematical models for eHealth
Université Cheikh Anta Diop: Image processing - eHealth
Climate Action, Environment, Environment, Resource Efficiency and Raw Materials
Université Cheikh Anta Diop: Water Management and Sensors
Ecole Polytechnique de Thiès: Water Management
Ecole Superieure Polytechnique de Dakar-UCAD - Energy efficient design & solar energy
Inclusive, Innovative and Reflective Societies
Ecole Polytechnique de Thiès: Cultural resources
Secure Societies Ecole Polytechnique de Thiès: Trustworthy ICT
Level of Research Maturity
Senegal has a good research base and track record in collaborative research through participation
in more than 41 projects securing over €5.3 million in research funding under FP7 and four Horizon
2020 projects during the first year of the programme. Following awareness raising of the ICT-39-
2015 Call, there were 16 participations from Senegal in projects submitted for consideration under
ICT-39-2015. University of Gaston Berger de Saint Louis, CODER4Africa and CTIC Dakar were
included in the WAZIUP project (Research and Innovation Action) which was selected for funding
under ICT-39-2015.
There is an increasing emphasis on further strengthening the research capacity within the country,
and facilitating the continued development of post-graduate programmes and involvement in cross-
border research.
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15. REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
15.1 Introduction
The Republic of South Africa occupies the southernmost
part of the African continent, stretching latitudinally from
22° to 35° south and longitudinally from 17° to 33° east,
flanked on the west by the Atlantic Ocean and on the east
by the Indian Ocean, whose waters meet at the country's
most southern tip, Cape Agulhas. South Africa has
common boundaries with Namibia, Botswana and
Zimbabwe, while Mozambique and Swaziland lie to the
north-east. The Kingdom of Lesotho is completely
enclosed by South African territory in the south-east.
South Africa has a surface area of 1,219,909 sq km, made
up of nine provinces, each with its own legislature, premier
and executive councils. The provinces (Western Cape, the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, the
Northern Cape, Free State, North West, Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Limpopo) have their own
distinctive landscapes, vegetation and climate.
According to the 2011 Censes Report, South Africa has a population of 50.6 million, of which 3
million households have computers, 3 million households have access to satellite television, 10.8
million households have access to a television set, 12 million households have access to a cell
phone and 14 million householders have access to the Internet. The literacy rate is estimated at
94.3% (2015). Pretoria, the capital city has a population of 2.059 million, Johannesburg (inlcuding
Ekurhuleni) 9.399 million, Durban 2.901 million and Cape Town 3.66 million (2015, CIA World
Factbook).
South Africa is a middle-income emerging market with abundant natural resources, well-developed
financial, legal, communications, energy and transport sectors, a stock exchange ranked among the
top 20 in the world, and a modern infrastructure supporting efficient distribution of goods throughout
the southern African region.
According to the 2014 rankings of the World Bank, South Africa has the world's 33nd largest
economy by GDP (Gross Domestic Product) and is the second largest economy in Afirca, valued at
USD 350,085 million. South Africa spends close to 10% of GDP on ICT goods and services of
which most are imported. ICT Research and Development spend is 0.12% of GDP with overall
Research and Development spend around 0.92% of GDP. Services consisted of 68% of GDP,
industry 29.5% and agriculture 2.5% (est 2013 CIA World FactBook)
In relation to Communications, according to 2014 figures (CIA World FactBook), there were 4.3
million fixed phone lines in use compared with 79.5 million mobile phones and 24.8 million Internet
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users. In terms of ICT infrastructure, there is an African Coast to Europe (ACE) under sea cable
landed at Cape Town, EASSy (Eastern African Submarine System) and SEACOM landed at
Mtunzini, South Africa Far East landed at Melkbosstrand and Mtunzini, SAT-E / WASC landed at
Mtunzini andWest African Cable System landed at Yzerfontein.
South Africa has a vibrant Higher Education sector and according to the 2011 census there are
more than 900,000 students enrolled in the 23 state-funded tertiary institutions (Universities,
Universities of Technology). As at December 2015 there were 96 private institutions of Higher
Education registered (Department of Higher Education and Training). Two more Universities have
been established since the 2011 census and took their first intake of students in 2014. There are
currently 50 registered public Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges,
covering training from Grade 10 to 12 and career-orientated education and vocational training126.
Furthermore, there are 295 private TVET Colleges (Department of Higher Education and Training).
15.2 ICT Background
The South African ICT sector is the largest on the African continent. As an increasingly important
contributor to South Africa's GDP, the country's ICT and electronics sector is both sophisticated and
developing. The country has a network that is 99% digital and includes the latest in fixed-line,
wireless and satellite communications, making it the most developed telecommunications network
on the continent. South Africa's IT industry is characterised by technology leadership, particularly in
the field of electronic banking services. South African companies are world leaders in pre-payment,
revenue management and fraud prevention systems, and in the manufacture of set-top boxes, all
exported successfully to the rest of the world. Several international corporates, recognised as
leaders in the IT sector, operate subsidiaries from South Africa, including IBM, Google, Unisys,
Microsoft, Intel, Systems Application Products (SAP), Dell, Novell and Compaq. The ICT industry
includes hardware, software, networking and related professional products and services. South
Africa's ICT and electronics sectors are expected to continue showing strong growth in the future.
ICT activities are fragmented across a number of government departments, research institutions,
universities and the private sector.
There are 18 national strategic integrated projects (SIPs)127 whose implementation oversight is lead
by the Presidential Infrastructure Coordinating Commission. The Infrastructure plan is monitored
and centrally driven and has the objectives of skilling, industrialisation and R&D. SIPs 15 and 16 are
focused on ICT and related fields. SIP 15 “Expanding access to communication technologies” is
focused on providing 100% broadband coverage to all households by 2020 by establishing core
points of Presence (POP’s) in district municipalities and extending new fibre networks. The schools'
connectivity rollout is focusing on approx. 27000 public schools. TV migration nationally from
analogue to digital broadcasting is also included. South Africa missed the June 2015 deadline to
126 http://www.dhet.gov.za/EducationInstitutions/FetColleges/tabid/174/Default.aspx/FetColleges/tabid/174/Default.aspx 127 http://www.info.gov.za/issues/national-development-plan/
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fully migrate from analogue to digital. A new deadline is yet to be announced, however, the
Government has begun with the rollout of subsidised set-top-boxes.
SIP 16: “SKA & Meerkat” is focused on SKA as a global mega science project, building an
advanced radio-telescope facility linked to research infrastructure and high speed ICT capacity. It is
expected to be commissioned in 2026 (Meerkat is SA’s small version - a precursor to the SKA). As
at December 2015 SANReN, which has capacity of 10Gbsp, has connected over 214 sites that
include University campuses, Science councils, TVET campuses, Academic hospitals and
government agencies such as the South African Weather Services.
The Department of Telecommunications and Postal Services is responsible for the ICT Policy,
which is currently under review lead, i.e White Paper. The purpose of the review is to examine the
policy and regulatory frameworks that impact on postal services, ICT, networks, infrastructure and
frequency spectrum allocation and licensing. The Broadband Policy "South Africa Connect" was
adopted in 2013. A National Cyber Security Policy Framework (NCPF) is in place and its
implementation plan is currently being developed. In this respect, the Department of Science and
Technology is developing the Cybersecurity RDI Programme as part of the implementation plan of
the NCPF.
The Department of Science and Technology is responsible for the ICT Research, Development and
Innovation Policy. The coordination of activities under the national ICT research and development
programme was informed by the ICT RDI Strategy, which was developed and approved in 2007.
The purpose of the National ICT R&D and Innovation strategy is to create an enabling system for
the advancement of ICT R&D and innovation, within the context of the broader national strategy. It
aims to improve economic competitiveness and the quality of life for South Africans.
Starting in early 2011, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) embarked on the process
of reprioritising areas of ICT RDI funding and identifying new areas that have a significant potential
to contribute to the growth of South African economy. This process was termed the ICT Research
and Development Implementation Roadmap Exercise. Its purpose was to review the existing ICT
RDI strategy; definition of new focus areas and interventions; new budget options and an improved
understanding of the full ICT RDI landscape in South Africa. The exercise took stock of current ICT
RDI capabilities and initiatives, analysed trends from a national and global perspective, and from
this, identified future direction for the ICT RDI sector in South Africa.
The context for the National ICT RDI Roadmap is based on the following:
The Internet economy contributes 2% to South Africa's GDP. This contribution is rising by c
0.1% per year and it is planned to reach 2.5% by 2016.
Total spent by consumers, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Government on products
and services via the Internet as well as on Internet access and infrastructures is R59 billion
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The Internet economy will over time being approaching the size of the construction sector
(estimated R120 billion in 2011), potentially becoming one of the new building blocks of the
South African Economy.
South Africa spends close to 10% of GDP on ICT goods and services, most of which are
imported.
R105.7 billion’s worth of ICT products were imported in 2012, representing 10.4% of all imports
in that year. The largest imported ICT products were radio, television and communications
equipment, comprising 47.5% of all ICT imports. (Statistics South Africa)
R26.8 billion’s worth of ICT products were exported, representing an ICT trade deficit of R78.9
billion. Telecommunications, broadcasting and information supply services, including knowledge
services, comprised the bulk of ICT exports (R15.9 billion or 59.6%). ICT exports contributed
2.8% of all exports in 2012. (Statistic South Africa)
R&D Intensity of South Africa has stabilised at around 0.92% of GDP over the past few years
but is still below the global norm of 2%.
Government, Universities and Science Councils have a keen interest in ICT R&D, but funding
and current spending on ICT R&D is limited compared to other fields
A process was followed, which included a baseline desktop research study, consultation with
experts in the relevant fields and series of workshops with relevant stakeholders within the South
African ICT RDI ecosystem.
The ICT RDI Innovation Roadmap was adopted in early 2013 as a plan and set of actions to guide
R&D investments over the next 10 years. In total, 63 technology themes and trends were identified
and analysed throughout the process. Utilising this total list, 27 market opportunities of interest to
South African ICT RDI ecosystem were identified, evaluated and clustered. From this process, six
main clusters were evident. The following are the six clusters and the market opportunities under
each cluster:
Broadband Infrastructure and Services (Future Wireless Technologies, Broadband Services
Infrastructure)
Development (e-inclusion; Development and ICT for Agriculture)
Sustainability and Environment (Green and ICT; Global Change; Geo-spatial applications)
Grand Science (Astronomy; Biomedical sciences)
Industry Applications (Smart infrastructure; Mining, Manufacture; Future internet applications;
Content creation and delivery; Import replacement; Supply chain optimisation; Asset
management)
The Service Economy (m-health; e-Services; e-Education; Business model innovation; Payment
solutions; Outsourced SA capability; Systems integration; Content and services localisation;
Mobile enablement; Trust and security).
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ICT RDI Roadmap Market Opportunity Areas
The development of capabilities and directing funding to these areas will revolve on working around
a partnership between government and the private sector, academia and science councils. The
ultimate goal of ICT R&D Implementation Roadmap is to accelerate the growth of ICT RDI in South
Africa.
15.3 Current ICT Initiatives and projects
Some of the ICT Initiatives are currently ongoing at national level include the Broadband Policy
Review Process, South African National Research Network & Tertiary Education and Research
Network, Digital Terrestrial Television Migration, Square Kilometer Array and the rollout of Tablets to
Schools in Gauteng Province.
15.3.1 Rollout of Tablets to School Learners in Gauteng
Between 2015 - 2019 Gauteng Province is providing tablets to all Grade 4 - 9 learners as part of an
investment in ICT and innovation projects in public schools. In addition to the tablets, each
classroom will be equipped with a smartboard and access to unlimited data during specific hours.
This initiative is focused on creating a "paper-less classrooms" to benefit the majority of pupils.
Leverage the ICT component of Grand Science projects to create new industrial and service capability
Use ICT to optimise the management of resources, assets and environments
Enable individuals to empower themselves: economically, socially and democratically
Research and innovate in the future means of providing access
Enable improved, lower cost, more convenient access and consumption of physical and digital services, both private and public
Facilitate growth and performance in existing and emerging sectors
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Funding source: Gauteng Provincial Department of Basic Education
15.3.2 The South African National Research Network
The South African National Research Network (SANReN) is funded by the Department of Science
and Technology (DST) and implemented by the CSIR Meraka Institute since 2009. SANReN now
provides a minimum of 1Gbps and to 10Gbps redundant connectivity to all South African public
universities, many science councils and entities such as the South African Weather Services – a
total of 214 sites as at December 2015. SANReN also supports the Square Kilometer Array and the
South Africa Antarctic Research Programme. Over 400,000 students, academics and researchers
presently benefit from the network with the target to research 10 million users. SANReN provides an
average of 2.82Gbps to each connected site. The SANReN network forms part of a comprehensive
South African government approach to a National Integrated Cyberinfrastructure System (NICIS) to
ensure successful participation of South African researchers in the global knowledge production
effort. Together with the Centre for High Performance Computing (CHPC) and the Data Intensive
Research Initiative for South Africa (DIRISA), the SANReN network forms the key components of
this cyberinfrastructure (CI) as a core scientific research infrastructure for South Africa.
TENET (Tertiary Education and Research Network of South Africa) operates SANReN, which
comprises of a national backbone, several metropolitan rings, and some dedicated long-haul circuits
to connect specific research installations. TENET is a member of UbuntuNet Alliance and has global
interconnectivity through UbuntuNet Alliance's London and Amsterdam gateways to GEANT
(European Research and Education Network). It is a beneficary of both Africa Connect and Africa
Connect 2 eInfrastructures project through UbuntuNet Alliance.
Funding Sources: DST
15.3.3 The Digital Terrestrial Television Migration
The Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) roll-out is one of the key priorities of the South African
government. Its aim is to migrate the terrestrial analogue television broadcasting infrastructure to
the digital broadcasting. The migration is necessary due to the developments in the
telecommunications technologies and the international obligations for broadcasting digital migration.
In 2006, the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) passed a resolution that all countries of
Europe, Africa, Middle East and the Islamic Republic of Iran (region 1) should migrate from
analogue to digital broadcasting services by June 2015. South Africa missed the agreed deadline
and the Minister of Communications is yet to set a new deadline. In August 2008, Government
approved the Broadcasting Digital Migration (BDM) Policy. The BDM Policy provides for a
framework within which digital migration should take place in the country. The current period of
migration is called dual illumination, when both analogue and digital TV signals are available to
viewers. The Broadcasting Digital Migration Policy provides that set-top-boxes will be sourced from
local manufacturers to increase the sector’s contribution to the real economy, improving growth and
facilitating job creation. The Cabinet approved a subsidy scheme called Scheme for Ownership
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Subsidy (SOS) which will provide TV owning households 70% towards the cost of the STB as an
incentive aimed at reaching the 5 million poorest TV owning households. The subsidy will be funded
through the Universal Service and Access Fund (USAF). The rollout of set-top-boxes by the South
African Post Office started in 2015.
Funding sources: Universal Service and Access Fund (USAF)
Geographic coverage: National
15.3.4 The Square Kilometer Array
The Square Kilometre Array (SKA) is an array of radio telescopes. The majority of the SKA - the full
dish array and the dense aperture array - will be built in Africa. The core - i.e. the region with the
highest concentration of receivers - will be constructed in the Northern Cape Province, about 80 km
from the town of Carnarvon (the same site as where the MeerKAT is being constructed). The sparse
aperture array (low frequency array) will be built in Australia. South Africa has already demonstrated
its excellent science and engineering skills by designing and starting to build the MeerKAT radio
telescope – as a precursor to the SKA. The technology being developed for MeerKAT is cutting-
edge and the project is creating a large group of young scientists and engineers with world-class
expertise in the technologies which will be crucial in the next 10 – 20 years, such as very fast
computing, very fast data transport, large data storage, large networks of sensors, software radios
and imaging algorithms. The MeerKAT is funded by the Department of Science and Technology
while the SKA is funded by a consortium of countries. Full operation of the SKA is planned for 2026.
The first seven dishes of the local precursor instrument - known as KAT-7 - were completed by
December 2010 and are being commissioned in 2015/16. It is the world's first radio telescope with
dishes made of fibre glass. KAT-7 is an engineering prototype for the 64-dish MeerKAT. The SKA
project has now entered its final pre-construction phase (or detailed design phase) before
construction of SKA1 commences in 2018. The SKA1 will incooperate the 64-dish MeerKAT.
15.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
15.4.1 National Priorities
South Africa's ICT Research Priorities are informed by the ICT RDI Roadmap (2013) which
identified the following 27 priority areas grouped into six clusters:
Broadband Infrastructure and Services (Future Wireless Technologies, Broadband Services
Infrastructure)
Development (e-inclusion; Development and ICT for Agriculture)
Sustainability and Environment (Green and ICT; Global Change; Geo-spatial applications)
Grand Science (Astronomy; Biomedical sciences)
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Industry Applications (Smart infrastructure; Mining, Manufacture; Future internet applications;
Content creation and delivery; Import replacement; Supply chain optimisation; Asset
management)
The Service Economy (m-health; e-Services; e-Education; Business model innovation;
Payment solutions; Outsourced SA capability; Systems integration; Content and services
localisation; Mobile enablement; Trust and security).
15.4.2 National Research Capacity
The table below provides an overview of some of the universities with ICT/Engineering Courses:
Institution Location Total Students ICT/Engineering Department(s)
CSIR/Meraka Institute Gauteng Students at CSIR are registered with various Universities for their study Degrees
Earth Observation Science and ICT; Human Language Technologies; Knowledge Technologies; Networks and Media; Integrative Systems, Platforms, Technologies; Cyber-infrastructure; Education and Rural Development
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Western Cape
33488 (year 2014)
8377 (Engineering)
1835 PostGraduates (2014)
Informatics and Design
Central University of Technology
Free State Over 33,000 Computer Science and Informatics
Durban University of Technology
KwaZulu-Natal
26 404 (2014)
12, 936 (science, engineering and technology)
752 PostGraduates
Electronics Engineering, Information Technology
Fort Hare University Eastern Cape
Approximately 12000 Computer Science, Information Systems
Nelson Mandela Metro University
Eastern Cape
26 630 (year 2014)
3,718 PostGraduates
Electrical Engineering, School of Information and Communication Technology, Computer Science, Institute for ICT Advancement
North West University North West 76,152
17,551 PostGraduates
School of Mathematics and Physical Sciences; School of Electrical, Electronic, Information Systems and Computer Science; School of Information Technology
Rhodes University Eastern Cape
7861 (year 2014)
2046 (science, engineering and technology)
2,255 PostGraduates
Computer Science; Information Systems; Physics and Electronics
Stellenbosch University Western Cape
30 150
10,051 PostGraduates
Computer Science; Electrical and Electronics Engineering; Centre for Languages and Speech Technology
Tshwane University of Technology
Gauteng Approximately 60,000 Departments of Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Networks, Systems Development, Enterprise Application Development and ICT Management
UNISA (Online and Distance Learning Institution)
Gauteng 350,000 Department of Electrical Engineering; Centre for Software Engineering; School of Computing
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University of Cape Town Western Cape
26357
9,306 PostGraduates
Computer Science; Information Systems; Electrical Engineering; Centre for Information Technology & National Development in Africa
University of Free State Free State Over 33,000 Computer Science and Informatics
University of Johannesburg Gauteng 48,691 (year 2014)
15094 (science, engineering and technology)
6,211 PostGraduates
Academy of Computer Science and Software Engineering; Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering Science
University of KwaZulu Natal KwaZulu-Natal
45459
4,639 PostGraduates
School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, School of Computer Engineering
University of Limpopo Limpopo 22914 (2013)
4,639 PostGraduates
Department of Computer Science
University of Pretoria Gauteng 61577 (2014)
24373 (SET, Health Sciences, and Natural and Agriculture)
25,113 PostGraduates
Departments of Computer Science, Informatics and Information Science. Departments of Systems Engineering, Electronic and Computer Engineering.
University of Venda Limpopo 11891 (year 2013)
4959 (Science & Technology)
1,338 PostGraduates
Department of Computer Science and Information Systems
University of Zululand KwaZulu-Natal
16 118 (2013)
1,299 PostGraduates
Department of Computer Science.
University of the Western Cape
Western Cape
University of Witwatersrand Gauteng 29,000 Department of Computer Science. Department of Electrical & Information Engineering.
South Africa has 25 publicly-funded institutions of Higher Education as well as research centres that
have the human and infrastructural capacity to successfully participate in joint collaborative projects
under Horizon 2020. Two of these 25 institutions took their first enrolments only in 2014.
CSIR/ Modeling and Digital Science and Meraka Institute128
Research areas include: Earth observation science and information technology; Human
language technologies and knowledge technologies; Information security; Robotics;
Integrative systems, platforms and technologies; Cyber infrastructure; Cloud Computing;
High Performance Computing; Internet of Things; Software Engineering and Architectures;
Robotics, Mathematical Modelling, Advanced Sensor Networks and Future Wireless
Technologies.
128 http://www.meraka.org.za
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University of Cape Town129
Departments include: Department of Electrical Engineering; Computer Science and
Information Systems and Centre for Information Technology & National Development in
Africa
Research areas include: Radar Remote Sensing; Computation and Applied Mechanics;
Broadband Networks & Applications; Digital Image Processing; Information for Community
Oriented Municipal Services
University of Pretoria130
Departments include: Department of Computer Science, Informatics and Information
Science; Departments of Systems Engineering, Electronic and Computer Engineering
Research areas include: Computational Intelligence; Computer and Information Security;
Geographic Information Science; ICT for Sustainable Development; Computer Science
Education Didactics and Applications; System Specifications and Formal Methods; Software
Engineering and Software Architecture; Advanced Sensor Networks; Biomedical
engineering; Control Systems; Energy Systems; Intelligent Systems; Telecommunications
and Signal Processing; Mobile Development Platforms
University of Johannesburg131
Departments include: Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering Science;
Academy of Computer Science and Software Engineering
Research areas include: Industrial Electronics Technology; Telecommunications and Stream
Processing Research
University of KwaZulu Natal132
Departments include: School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science; School of
Computer Engineering; Department of Electrical Engineering
Research areas include: Radio Access and Rural Technologies; Image Processing and
Pattern Recognition; Simulation and Modelling; Sensor Web, Biomedical Informatics,
Bioinformatics
UNISA133
Departments include: Department of Electrical Engineering; Centre for Software
Engineering; School of Computing
Research areas include: Image Control and Processing; Intelligent Systems; Parallel and
Distributed Computer Architectures; Intelligent Agents; Electrical Systems and Wireless
Communications
129 http://www.uct.ac.za 130 http://www.up.ac.za 131 http://www.uj.ac.za/ 132 http://www.ukzn.ac.za/ 133 http://www.unisa.ac.za
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University of Witwatersrand134
Departments include: Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering Science;
Academy of Computer Science and Software Engineering
Research areas include: Biomedical Engineering; Computational Electromagnetics;
Electrical Machines and Drives; Software and Information Engineering; Systems and
Control; Telecommunications; Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.
Nelson Mandela Metro University135
Departments include: Electrical Engineering; School of Information and Communication
Technology, Computer Science; Institute for ICT Advancement
Research areas include: Human Language Technologies; Mobile Development Platforms;
Rhodes University136
Departments include: Computer Science; Information Systems; Physics and Electronics
Research areas include: Cloud Computing; Mobile Development Platforms; Living Labs
Stellenbosch University137
Departments include: Electrical and Electronics Engineering; Computer Science; Centre for
Languages and Speech Technology
Research areas include: Embedded Systems; Mobile Computing; Sensors; Human
Language Technologies; Mobile Development Platforms; Parallel Programming; Robotics;
Search Applications; Software Engineering and Architectures; Visualisation; Simulation and
Modelling; Internet of Things
University of the Western Cape138
Research areas include: Human Language Technologies; Software Design; High
Performance Computing
Cape Peninsula University of Technology139
Departments include: Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering; Industrial & Systems
Engineering; Information and Communications Technology Academy; Informatics and
Design
Research areas include: Energy Harvesting; RFID; Simulation & Modelling; Games Engine;
Localisation
Central University of Technology140
Departments include: Department of Electrical, Electronic & Computer Engineering;
Department of Information Technology
134 http://www.cs.wits.ac.za 135 http://www.nmmu.ac.za/ 136 http://www.cs.ru.ac.za 137 http://www.eng.sun.ac.za/portal/page/portal/Engineering/Engineering_Home 138 http://www.uwc.ac.za/ 139 http://www.cput.ac.za/ 140 http://www.cut.ac.za/
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Research areas include: Voice over IP; Mobile Platforms
Durban University of Technology141
Departments include: Department of Electronic Engineering; Department of Accounting and
Informatics
Research areas include: Human Computer Interaction; Software as a Service
Tshwane University of Technology142
Departments include: Departments of Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering;
Computer Networks, Systems Development, Enterprise Application Development; ICT
Management
Research areas include: Human Computer Interaction; Service Design
University of Fort Hare143
Departments include: Department of Computer Science & Information Systems
Research areas include: Living Labs
North West University144
Departments include: School of Electrical, Electronic, Information Systems and Computer
Science; School of Information Technology; School of Mathematics and Physical Sciences
University of Free State145
Departments include: Department of Computer Science and Informatics
Research areas include Software Design
University of Limpopo146
Departments include: Department of Computer Science
Research areas include: Software Design
University of Venda147
Departments include: Department of Computer Science and Information Systems
Research areas include: Ontologies and Semantic Web; Parallel Programming; Software
Design and Development; Biomedical Sensors
University of Zululand148
Departments include: Department of Computer Science; Department of Physics and
Engineering
141 http://www.dut.ac.za 142 http://www.tut.ac.za 143 http://ufh.ac.za/ 144 http://www.nwu.ac.za 145 http://www.ufs.ac.za 146 http://www.ul.ac.za/ 147 http://www.univen.ac.za 148 http://www.uzulu.ac.za/
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Research areas include: Image Processing; Enterprise Data Integration; Model Driven
Development; Wireless Communication Technolgies
Vaal University of Technology149
Departments include: Department of Electrical Engineering; Department of Information and
Communications Technology; Department of Software Studies
Research areas include: Human Language Technologies; Information Security; Augmented
Reality
Walter Sisulu University150
Departments include: School of Mathematics and Computation; Schools of Computing;
Schools of Technology
Research areas include: Bioinformatics; Big Data Curation; OERS; Knowledge Capturing
There are also some private sector companies that conduct R&D in ICT, albeit on a limited scale
while producing world class innovation products and services. There are also some ICT
multinational companies that have an intention to setup R&D facilities/centres in South Africa.
15.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders the following thematic areas are considered to be
important in the context of the ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Topics Partners include
eHealth Health management solutions and business models for mobile and online services; Health Information Systems/Electronic Health Records in rural clinics with limited connectivity; Health diagnosis and Surveillance; Mechanisms and alarms to deal with compliance issues; Telemedicine and remote diagnosis using mobile platforms; Improved logistics of drugs to dispensing point to patient
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University; University of the Free State; Meraka Institute; Medical Research Council; University of Stellenbosch; University of Cape Town; Walter Sisulu University; Tshwane University of Technology; University of Pretoria; University of Johannesburg; Rhodes University
Technology-enhanced Learning
Integration of ICT into education to improve learning experience; Cloud Solutions for personalised and classroom eLearning given low connectivity; Content Development
University of Stellenbosch; Meraka Institute; Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching (CILT), University of Cape Town; ; University of South Africa
eAgriculture Use of ICT to support enhanced agricultural production; Cloud Model for Agricultural sector; Integration of early
University of Stellenbosch; Agricultural Research Council; University of Pretoria;
149 http://www.vut.ac.za 150 http://www.wsu.ac.za
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warning systems into mobile platforms University of KwaZulu-Natal; Cape Peninsula University of Technology; Institute of Wine Biotechnology; CSIR Meraka Institute; University of Johannesburg
eGovernment Public Service Delivery; Optimisation of municipality systems; Smart Cities
University of Stellenbosch; Meraka Institute; Walter Sisulu University; University of Cape Town
Environment Sensor technology to monitor water loss and quality; air quality; Smart electricity grids
University of Pretoria; University of Johannesburg
Digital Inclusion Application of ICT for socio-economic development in national context; optimal use of ICT for socio-economic development of marginalised and rural communities
University of Cape Town; University of Zululand; Fort Hare University; Rhodes University; Meraka Institute
Energy Electrical energy systems; Thermal systems; Energy systems analysis; Strategic energy technologies; Nuclear and Hydrogen Energy; Energy efficiency; Nanobiotechnology; Fuel cell and nanotechnology; Biofuels;
University of South Africa; University of Stellenbosch; University of Witwatersrand; North-West University; Fort Hare University; Rhodes University; Cape Peninsula University of Technology; Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University; University of Cape Town;
15.4.4 Mapping to H2020 Themes
The initial mapping to Horizon 2020 Research areas is summarised below:
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Components and Systems Witwatersrand University: School of Electrical and Information Engineering (Centre for Systems and Control): Research activities range from classical control to modern linear and non-linear control. All aspects of systems and signals namely, modelling, synthesis, control analysis and design pertaining to linear and non-linear, time-invariant as well as time varying systems and signals form part of the focus.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Center for Real-Time Distributed Systems: Research includes networked control systems, standard based substation automation, and optimization of complex systems.
University of Johannesburg, Academy of Computer Science and Software Engineering: Component-based embedding of Agent-enhancing characteristics in Agents
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and Multi-Agent systems.
Durban University of Technology, Institute of Systems Science: research into real-world questions using multi-disciplinary computational and mathematical systems methods, as well as simulation and mathematical methods.
Advanced Computing University of Cape Town, University of Western Cape, CSIR Meraka: High Performance Computing
Future Internet CSIR, Meraka Institute: Internet Protocol (IP) networking; Infrastructure cloud; Application platforms; Protocol platforms; Free and open source (FOSS) operating systems; Internet of Things and IP multimedia subsystem.
University of Pretoria, SAChI:Advanced sensor networks with focus on hardware, test-beds and implementation aspects.
University of Johannesburg, Academy of Computer Science and Software Engineering: Services oriented architecture, Software as service, Cloud computing and Cybersecurity.
Content Technologies & Information Management
University of Johannesburg, Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering: Services Computing and Trust Management with focus on trust and reputation models, Services Oriented Architecture, Software as Service, and Cloud Computing.
Witwatersrand University: School of Electrical and Information Engineering: Focus on Big Data (Medical Informatics) and Bioinformatics.
University of Pretoria, Department of Information Science: Knowledge Management, Information Processes, Meta-context of Information.
CSIR, Meraka Institute: Use of semantic technologies to employ novel forms of representing information and reasoning about it and coupling of the structures employed in semantic technologies to existing information sources such as database systems, semi-structured and unstructured sources of information.
Robotics CSIR, Modelling and Digital Science: Mobile intelligent, autonomous systems for areas of field robotics that promote intelligent behaviour such as in mining and other unstructured environments.
University of Stellenbosch, Department of Electrical and Electronics: Dynamics and control of autonomous systems, e.g. low earth orbiting satellites, manned and unmanned fixed and rotary wing aircraft, underwater vehicles, computer systems, as well as Biomedical Electronics.
Tshwane University of Technology, Department of Electrical Engineering: Control, Image Processing and Machine Intelligence.
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University of Pretoria, Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering, SAChI: Research is on computational intelligence, with a particular focus in computational swarm intelligence, learning from zero knowledge using competitive coevolution, and evolutionary algorithms.
University of Cape Town, Department of Electrical Engineering: Control and Instrumentation, Image Processing and Vision Systems.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering: Satellite systems engineering.
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University: Department of Mechatronics: focus on adaptive robotic control based on infrared indoor GPS (IR-GPS), adaptable mechanical fixturing approach for the mitigation of manufacturing errors; and wireless, intelligent control of a mobile office robot.
Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health University of the Free State, School of Medicine: High throughput biology, Bioinformatics/Computational Biology, Novel drug discovery and Advanced cloning systems.
CSIR Biosciences: Multi-disciplinary research in synthetic biology and the aptamer technology to provide cutting-edge tools to analyse, prevent and diagnose intractable public health problems such as HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria.
Medical Research Council: Medical Imaging Research Unit: Medical imaging that specifically addresses the functional brain imaging, measurement of cancer cell topography; and characterising neuromuscular function.
Medical Research Council, The Drug Discovery and Development Research Unit: Specialises in the use of innovative drug discovery tools for the development of drugs targeted for treatment of infectious and other endemic African diseases.
Medical Research Council, Exercise Science and Sports Medicine Research Unit: Neurophysiology and the control mechanisms of fatigue; Genetic determination of athletic ability and susceptibility to exercise-induced injuries; Physical exercise in the prevention and rehabilitation of chronic disease states.
Medical Research Council, Environment & Health Research Unit: Urbanization and urban health; Lead poisoning prevention; Exposure to environmental pollution; the public health implications of heat stress (climate change).
University of Pretoria, School of Health Systems and Public Health: research on sustainable malaria control methods from the biochemical and the biological to the
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chemical and the physical.
University of Johannesburg, Department of Biochemistry: Human Genetics and Infectious Diseases; Diabetes Therapeutic Research and Chromatin Research.
University of Stellenbosch, Faculty of Health and Medicine: Research on Infectious Diseases, especially TB and HIV/AIDS; Reproductive Health; Mental Health, especially psychiatric disorders; Non-Communicable Diseases, especially diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease; Public Health, especially health systems and evidence-based health care; Genetics and Injury, Trauma and Rehabilitation.
Rhodes University, Natural Products and Medicinal Chemistry Research Group: Research focus on function and medicinal chemistry of biologically active natural products, medicinal plants and quality of herbal medicines, as well as the design and synthesis of new medicinal agents.
University of Cape Town, Drug Discovery and Development Center: Structural Biology - structure-based drug discovery; Computational Chemistry: Virtual Screening and Modelling. Medicinal Chemistry (Hit to Lead and Lead Optimization). In vitro and in vivo Mycobacteriology and Parasitology. Biochemistry: Recombinant protein expression, protein isolation and characterisation, and development of enzyme assays for evaluating inhibitor efficacy
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU): Health informatics, ICT for disease management, Information security and interoperability standards
Walter Sisulu University(WSU): Health informatics - Electronic Medical Records for Community Health Clinics
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT): Medical Devices development, eHealth and mHealth platforms.
Energy University of South Africa, The College of Science, Engineering and Technology: Research on Fuel cell and nanotechnology focuses on using energy in a wiser fashion in order to minimise environmental hazards, as well as ways of optimising the efficiency with which it is produced.
University of Stellenbosch, Department of Electrical and Electronics: Research on electrical energy systems focusing on broadly on generation, transmission, conversion and control of electrical energy, including renewable energy. A parallel hybrid electrical vehicle was recently developed and tested.
University of Witwatersrand; Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering: Thermal systems with focus on Combustion Analysis Software Development Solar Powered Low DT Liquid-Piston Stirling Engines for Water Pumping, Optimising the Performance of
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an Alcohol Fuelled Engine, Regenerative Internal Combustion Engines, Mine Cooling System Research and Flow Characteristics of Ice/Water/Air Mixture.
North-West University, Schools of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering: Research includes bioethanol and biodiesel production; Clean coal technology including coal minerology and refinement; Nuclear and hydrogen energy. The university also has Research Chairs in Nuclear Energy, Clean Coal technology, Biofuels and Hydrogen Energy.
Fort Hare University, Institute of Technology: Research on Energy efficiency and the built environment, gasification of biomass, improvement of the collection efficiency of the cyclone, thermal and chemical analysis of the gasification process.
Rhodes University, Biotechnology Innovation Center: The research is currently focused on three core research areas, i.e. Biosensors, Biofuel Cells, Nanobiotechnology. The research is aimed at realizing innovative and commercialisable solutions in the development of sensors and in accessing alternative energy from waste products.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Centre for Substation Automation and Energy Management Systems provides specialised training, research and development in new technologies to improve power systems in South Africa.
Nelson Mandela Metro University: Research and development on Strategic energy technologies for South Africa
University of Cape Town, Energy Research Center: Energy efficiency, environmental and climate change, energy systems analysis and planning.
Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture
Agricultural Research Council: Research and development on the natural agricultural resources, viz, soil, climate and water, as well as on appropriate agricultural engineering technologies for both small- and large-scale agricultural producers. Develop technologies to improve the quality of animals and develop genetic and physiological methods to identify and study superior livestock breeding. Applied research on improvement and cultivation of grain crops and commercial crops, e.g. tobacco.
University of KwaZulu-Natal, Department of Agricultural Engineering: Engineering and science research in three main areas: Energy and supply chains in biomass production and processing, Systems irrigation soil & water engineering, as well as Food processing and post harvest engineering.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Functional Foods Research Unit: Research on metabolic and nutritional effects of functional foods or premixes with
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functional food characteristics in human volunteers participating in well-designed clinical trials.
University of Stellenbosch, Institutes of Plant Biotechnology: Research on carbohydrate partitioning in higher plants, engineering of biopolymer synthesis, plant growth and resistance of plants to abiotic stress.
Institute of Wine Biotechnology: Molecular and Metabolite Profiling of vines, Advanced chemical-analytical techniques in viticulture, oenology and biotechnology; Computational Biology and Biomathematics.
CSIR Biosciences: Key areas of focus are Natural product chemistry; Food science and technology; Natural product processing, and Indigenous knowledge and biodiversity management.
University of Johannesburg, Department of Biotechnology: Nutritional and sensory quality of African indigenous crops; Antioxidant potential of phytochemicals in plant foods; sensory acceptable mageu-based gluten free bread. Plant biotechnology and post harvest physiology and technology of fresh fruit, vegetables and cut flowers.
University of Pretoria: Veterinary aspects of food safety and food security, Molecular studies on infectious and parasitic diseases of animals, Phytomedicine and ethno-veterinary medicine, as well as Anatomical and physiological studies on animals.
Inclusive, Innovative and Reflective Societies
Fort Hare University and Rhodes University, Telkom Center of Excellence in ICT4D: The research focus of the centre is on the use of computing technology for socio-economic development of marginalized and rural communities.
CSIR Meraka: Human Languages Technologies, Speech-to-text technologies, wireless communication technologies for rural implementation.
Secure Societies CSIR MDS, University of KwaZulu-Natal, University of Limpopo, Tshwane University of Technology, University of Stellenbosch
Level of Research Maturity
South Africa has a vibrant, well developed research community and a good track record in
collaborative research (193 FP7 projects with over €37.3 million in research funding). During the
first year of Horizon 2020, 24 projects were secured.
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As part of the mapping of National ICT RDI capability undertaken as part of the ICT R&D
Implementation Roadmap (2011), institutions used the following criteria to self-analyse capability:
The following results were provided151
Figure: Strength and Maturity of ICT RDI Ecosystem at Universities
The ICT R&D Implementation Roadmap will be implemented over a period of ten years (2012 -
2022). With directed investment focused on system-level outputs, South Africa's ambitions in terms
of outputs in the next ten years are the following:
Human Capital Development: Masters (675), PhDs (450) and Post Docs (225)
151 Full Capability Map available at http://www.meraka.org.za/ictroadmap/?q=node/761
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Knowledge Generation: Publications (1,700), Patent Applications (120) and Registered Patents
(42)
Technology Development: Prototypes (470), Technology Packages (124) and Products and
Services to Market (40)
To achieve the system level outputs outlined above, each stage of developing a market opportunity,
i.e. explore, build critical mass, embed capacity and commercialise will require different mix of
funding instruments. The following are funding instruments available in the South African ICT R&D
and innovations ecosystem: Scholarships and studentships, technology development, RDI
infrastructure, Partnership (PPP) and Collaboration, Research Chairs (National Research Fund),
Centers of Competence (Technology Innovations Agency), seed funding and venture capital. The
emerging to mature areas of R&D are shown in the Figure below:
=
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16. SWAZILAND
16.1 Introduction
The Kingdom of Swaziland is a landlocked country in
Southern Africa, bordered by South Africa to the North,
South and West and Mozambique to the East.
Swaziland consists of four administrative districts
namely Hhohho, Manzini, Lubombou, and Shiselweni as
shown in the map. It has a surface area of 17,363
square kms. The population is estimated at 1.4 million
inhabitants (est July 2015 CIA World FactBook) with a
literacy rate of 87.5%. 60 percent of the total population
is between 15 and 64 years of age. Mbabane, the
capital city, has a population of 66,000 (2014, CIA
World Factbook). The official languages are English and
Siswati. Swaziland is classified as a low middle-income
developing country with a GDP per capita of US$9,600
(2014 est).
In relation to Communications, Swaziland has two telecommunications service providers (Swaziland
Posts and Telecommunication Corporation and MTN) with 80% mobile penetration. The country’s
backbone infrastructure is NGN and is connected to the SEACOM undersea cable through Maputo,
Mozambique and EASSy undersea cable through Mthunzini South Africa for redundancy. Fibre
optic is laid through out the country. There are four Internet providers including the government
computer services department and 337,300 Internet users (representing 23.8% penetration).
According to 2014 figures (CIA World FactBook), there were 44,400 fixed phone lines compared
with 916,800 mobile phones. The national Internet Exchange Point (IXP) was put in place in April
2014. Free internet access is provided to schools and hospitals through ITU.
There is one public university (the University of Swaziland) and three private institutions of Higher
Education: The Southern Nazarene University, Limkokwing University and the Christian Medical
University, which opened in August 2013.
16.2 ICT Background
The major policies in the ICT sector include:
The Swaziland Post and Telecommunications Corporation Act of 1983
This is the Act of Parliament currently regulating the Communication Industry and is under the
Ministry of information Communication and Technology. A new Bill, which will soon become Law is
set to take over from this Act and liberalise the telecommunication industry by establishing an
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Independent Regulator for the regulation of the Industry. The Bill has passed through Parliament on
its way to become Law (July 2013) and it is expected that it will become operational during early
2014.
ICT Policy 2004
The ICT Policy is under the Ministry of Information Communication and Technology. Within
Government, IT services are provided by the Government Computer Services (GCS) Department
which is responsible for providing efficient and cost effective Information Technology (IT) services to
all Government Ministries and Departments, and to respond to parastatal and public enterprise
organizations. It will do this by:
Formulating Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Policies that are in line with
Government's social and economic development strategies;
Assisting clients to manage Information by leveraging on ICTs;
Setting up and maintaining a reliable network infrastructure;
Providing a secure environment for data;
Keeping abreast of ICT Development regionally/internationally by attending seminars,
subscribing to ICT Publications
Developing its IT Human resource to sustain on going as well as planned development
National Information and Communication Infrastructure (NICI) Policy 2006
This Policy, which is under the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology was
approved by Cabinet in August 2006. Subsequent to this an implementation plan has been
developed with assistance from the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) a UN agency through
its Subregional Office (ECA-SA), and the Government of Finland, through the Cooperation in the
Development of Information and Communications Technologies in Africa Programme. The National
Information and Communication Infrastructure Implementation Plan for 2012-2016 (NICI Plan 2016)
is based on the principles espoused in the National Development Strategy (NDS) and will guide
Swaziland in the exploitation of (ICT) as a catalyst in the national development efforts.
STI Policy 2012
The STI Policy is a more recent development but the efforts to develop the policy started more than
a decade ago. This policy is within the Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology
and was developed with assistance from UNESCO and approved by Cabinet in April 2012. The
vision of this policy is: Harnessing, utilising and advancing STI in order to become an innovative and
competent nation, thus achieving the goals of Vision 2022 (NDS).
Swaziland Communications Commission Act 2013
The Swaziland Communications Commission Act empowered the Swaziland Communications
Commission as an independent regulator in July 2013. It is now responsible for regulating and
supervising the operations of electronic communications networks and the provision of electronic
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communications services in Swaziland, including the regulation of data protection in electronic
communications. The Act also seeks to transfer the regulatory powers and functions of Swaziland
Posts and Telecommunication Corporation relating to communications, as provided under the
Swaziland Posts and Telecommunications Act, 1983 to the Commission. The Commission is
expected to advise government on policy and legislative measures, including radio and television
broadcasts, postal services, electronic commerce and data protection in electronic communications.
More information is available on the government website www.gov.sz
16.3 Current ICT Initiatives and projects
The Swaziland Government is currently developing a Science and Technology Park so that Swazis
could have the opportunity to participate in the knowledge economy. This park would create a
Special Economic Zone (SEZ) to facilitate FDI as well as R&D facilities to facilitate the to facilitate
the transfer of research results into the market place. The project started in 2007 with preliminary
studies and eventually moved into the construction stage in 2012 starting with the initial
infrastructure. An area of 160 hectares is being developed for industries in the area of
Biotechnology with funding from the Republic of China on Taiwan
16.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
16.4.1 National Priorities
National ICT Research Priorities include: eHealth, eAgriculture & Food Security, eInfrastructure,
Environment and Entrepreneurship
16.4.2 National Research Capacity
There is one public university (the University of Swaziland) and three private institutions of Higher
Education: The Southern Nazarene University, Limkokwing University and the Christian Medical
University, which opened in August 2013. Limkokwing has Departments focused on
ICT/Engineering but its research capabilities are still to be documented. In the Higher Education
Sector the institutions that currently undertake research are the University of Swaziland (UNISWA)
academic staff, the UNISWA Research Centre (URC) and the Swaziland Institute for Research in
Traditional Medicine, Indigenous and Medicinal Food Plants (SIRMIP).
Outside the Higher Education sector, six institutions undertake research: the Agricultural Research
Division of the Ministry of Agriculture, the Mathematics/Science and Prevocational Departments of
the National Curriculum Centre of the Ministry of Education as well as the Energy Department and
Department of Geological Survey and Mines both of which fall under the Ministry of Natural
Resources & Energy. The Agricultural Research Division carries out research in support of national
agricultural objectives and hence plays a very important role in socio-economic development.
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16.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders the following thematic areas are considered to be
important in the context of the ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Topics Partners include
eHealth Health Information Systems/Electronic Health Records; Health diagnosis and Surveillance; Telemedicine and remote diagnosis; Logistics Supply Chain Management System; Integrated Response System
University of Swaziland (Department of Health Sciences); Ministry of Health (Strategic Information Department - Research Unit); NGOs working in Health sector
eAgriculture Early Warning Systems; Food Security; Livestock tracking; Drought resistance seeds
University of Swaziland (Department of Agricultural Research); Ministry of Agriculture (Department of Agriculture and extension); Swaziland Economic Policy Analysis Research Center; Swaziland Environmental Authority
eGovernment Public Service Delivery University of Swaziland (Department of Computer Information Systems); Ministry of ICT
Environment Water Conservation University of Swaziland, Swaziland Environmental Authority, Swaziland Water Services, Ministry of Natural Resources & Energy
Level of Research Maturity
The Higher Education Institutions are currently primarily focused on teaching. The general level of
research maturity is limited to specific departments where staff members are undertaking research.
There are specific institutions undertaking research focused on Agriculture and Energy. The country
is currently focused on putting the necessary eInfrastructure in place and encouraging institutions to
develop research capacity.
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17. REPUBLIC OF TANZANIA
17.1 Introduction
The United Republic of Tanzania is situated in East Africa,
with borders with Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi,
Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia and Mozambique.
It has a surface area of 947,300 sq km, made up to 30
administrative divisions. The population is estimated at
51.045 million (2015, CIA World Factbook) with a literacy
rate of 70.6%. 52.7% of the total population is between 15
– 64 years of age. Dar is Salaam has a population of 5.116
million (2015, CIA World Factbook). Dodoma is the official
capital and home to Tanzanian Parliament while the
Government Ministries and major institutions and
diplomatic missions are located in Dar es Salaam.
Zanzibar has its own government and its own Ministry of Education and several other ministries,
which do not fall under union matters. The official languages are Swahili and English (primary
language for business, Government affairs and Higher Education).
The Government of Tanzania recognises the importance of ICT and Innovation to support socio-
economic development. Two of the three main policies supporting Innovation and Entrepreneurship
have been recently reviewed and are awaiting Cabinet approval: the updated Science Technology
and Innovation (STI) Policy to incorporate Entrepreneurship and the national ICT Policy of 2003 as
part of the development of a new implementation strategy.
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In relation to Communications, according to the TCRA published statistics152, there were 142,950
fixed lines and 34.108 million mobile subscribers, giving a teledensity penetration of 71% as at 30
September 2015. TCRA reported 11.358 million Internet users during 2014 compared with 9.3
million during 2013. Mobile money applications are very popular for paying water/electricity bills and
sending or receiving funds, with M-Pesa provided by Vodacom Tanzania, Airtel Monday provided by
Airtel and Easy-Pesa provided by Zantel.
The digital infrastructure in Tanzania has
improved significantly with the fibre-optic
network, investment in local Internet
Exchange Points, migration to IPv6 and
construction of the National ICT Backbone
(NICTBB), which is now over 95%
complete. NICTBB connected to SEACOM
in July 2009 and EASSY in April 2010.
There is extensive use of VSAT Internet,
GSM, 3G, 4G, LTE and Microwave. The
Government has introduced a Universal
Communication Fund to facilitate telecommunications in rural areas. National Internet Xchange
Points (IXP) have been implemented since 2004 with funding from ITU. The national framework for
Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) is being developed. There are more than 15 Tele-centres in place
mostly funded by SIDA.
There are 11 public universities, 17 private universities and 26 private institutions of Higher
Education.
17.2 ICT Background
The Tanzania Development Vision 2025 highlights the importance of leveraging ICT alongside the
necessary skills and capabilities to realise a well-educated and learning society; and a strong,
competitive economy capable of sustainable growth and shared benefits.
The National ICT Policy (2003) articulated ten main focus areas in harnessing ICT in Tanzania
which include strategic ICT leadership; ICT infrastructure; ICT Industry; Human Capital; Legal and
Regulatory Framework; Productive Sectors; Service Sectors; Public Service; Local Content; and
Universal Access. Under the Bilateral agreement between the Government of Finland and the
Government of Tanzania through the TANZICT153 project the National ICT Policy of 2003 was
reviewed and is awaiting Cabinet approval.
152 TCRA Quarterly Communications Statistics Report, July - September 2015 153 http://tanzict.or.tz/
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The Government established the Ministry of Communication, Science and Technology in 2008,
which among other tasks, is charged with the responsibility to create a conducive environment for
investment, introduction and use of ICT in national development efforts and government operations.
Implementation of the National ICT Policy in Tanzania involves various stakeholders both public and
private. With the Ministry of Communication, Science and technologies taking the lead, all
government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) are required to prepare relevant sector
specific ICT strategies for the effective application of ICT. There are also development partners, and
NGOs working with and facilitating MDAs in developing ICT strategies as well as carrying out
specific projects toward implementation of ICT. The Tanzania Commission for Science and
Technology plays a role in promoting ICT along with other technologies for development and also
assists sector ministries in developing ICT strategies. In this regard, COSTECH championed the
development of ICT strategies in the health, education, good governance particularly local
government sectors.
The eGovernment Strategy was put in place in September 2012. The eGovernment Agency is
responsible for the design and implementation of ICT enabled public services at a local and national
level.
The rapid development of the telecommunications market means that the cost of owning and using
digital equipment continues to decrease making ICTs increasingly accessible to the average
Tanzanian. The ICT landscape is changing dramatically with the landing of the SEACOM and
EASSY submarine cables on the East African Coast. The National ICT Backbone (NICTBB) is being
constructed on the Optic fibre cable. The introduction of the fibre optic network through the NICTBB
has reduced the cost of phone calls by nearly 40% in the past three years. NICTBB connected to
SEACOM in July 2009 and EASSY in April 2010.
The cost of connectivity is very high in Tanzania, which creates barriers to the spread and use of
the Internet, as a major vehicle for the transfer of data and access to information. Many higher
education institutions use VSAT for bandwidth Internet. The Tanzania Education Research Network
(TERNET) was established in 2008. Progress to date has been gradual and incremental. 128 HEIs
and research institutions were identified for connection through the NREN, with 28 to be connected
in Phase 1 of the Science Technology and Higher Education Program (STHEP). By December
2012, 14 Institutions (min 10Mbps) were connected to the Network Operations Centre (NoC) at
COSTECH, which has a STM-1 line provided via SEACOM. TERNET is a member of the Ubuntunet
Alliance and a participant in the AfricaConnect project to interconnect African NRENs’ through
cross-border fibre to facilitate regional exchange of research and education traffic. As part of the
STHEP World Bank project, eLearning was piloted in 6 institutions. The E-libraries pilot is planned
to be undertaken during 2016/2017.
Under Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA), the Licensing Framework consists
of Network Facilities, Network Services, Application Services and Content Service Providers. The
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Application Service license, which costs c. $2,000 per year, relates to provision of electronic
communications services to end users (e.g. Internet service providers, virtual mobile provider,
payphone services, fixed/mobile service, financial services, Internet on mobile, eGovernment,
eHealth or eCommerce services). TCRA has provided ICT Scholarships for bachelors, Masters and
PhD candidates since 2011, with eight students sponsored in 2011, nine in 2012, with a goal to
eventually support forty students. The Scholarships are advertised on a yearly basis with a deadline
in August.
17.3 Current ICT Initiatives and projects
ICT Initiatives are currently ongoing at national level in the areas of eInfrastructure and Education
(Science, Technology and Higher Education Program, Tanzania National Research and Education
Network, eLibraries, Education Management Information System), eHealth, Information Society &
Entrepreneurship (TANZICT project, Dar Teknohama Business ICT Incubator. KINU) and the
Tanzania ICT Technology Park.
17.3.1 Science Technology and Higher Education Program (STHEP)
Science Technology and Higher Education Program (STHEP) is funded as a World Bank IDA loan
of $100 million to the Government of Tanzania, implemented through the Ministry of Education and
Vocational Training (MoEVT) program with support from the Ministry of Communication Science and
Technology (MCST). This was initially a seven-year program, which was approved in 2008 and
divided into two phases of activities. APL1 activities were to be implemented within the first two
years and APL2 activities were to be accomplished within the last five years of the program. The
long-term purpose of STHEP is to improve development of human capital in area of Science and
Technology (S&T) and create a knowledge-based economy within the next ten years. 128 Higher
Education and Research Institutions (HERIs) were identified as being under the STHEP program.
STHEP has four program components: Component 1A – Investments in Priority Discipline for
Economic Growth; Component 1B – Expanded capacity for Teachers preparation and for graduate’s
studies in education; Component 2A – Strengthening Key Higher Education Agencies and
Institutions; Component 2B – Investments in ICT based Higher Education Systems. STHEP
Component 2B is focusing on four (4) major areas being; National Research and Education Network
(NREN), Education Management Information system (EMIS), E-Library, and E-Learning. Shared
mechanisms to support the implementation of Component 2B of STHEP have being established
between all 128 HERIs under this program.
The final findings of the feasibility study for the development of E-libraries and EMIS was presented
on 18th December 2012. The piloting of the e-learning system commenced in February 2013 with
five Universities. The piloting for E-libraries and EMIS will be undertaken with eight institutions from
February 2013.
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In June 2014, the Program was extended for a further 18 month period with an additional loan of
$15 million to finish existing activities ($6.37 million) and commence new activities to pilot reforms
introduced by STHEP-1 related to secondary school science teachers and support the tertiary
education system to be more responsive to the labour market demand.
Funding agency: World Bank, IDA credit, $100 million + further $15 million
17.3.2 Tanzania National Research and Education Network (NREN)
Within STHEP, a major objective of component 2B is to set up TERNET154 in 2008 as the National
Research and Education Network (NREN) to: better manage the increasing numbers of students as
the education sector expands; improve the quality of data used in decision making and resource
management; enhance knowledge sharing; improve transparency; improve classroom student-
teacher participation; and improve research capability. It is envisaged that over time the NREN will
enable HEIs (Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and Research Institutions to link to the Internet
and to exchange information between institutions. It is also aimed to facilitate advanced teaching at
Universities, research and Community services. It should help to alleviate the cost and isolation
challenges currently faced by institutions and individuals in rural areas as well as linking the
Tanzanian HEIs and research institutions to the international research and education networks.
ICT Infrastructure
The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania through the Ministry of Communication,
Science and Technology (MCST) built the National ICT Optic Fibre Cable (OFC) infrastructure
Backbone (NICTBB). The NICTBB connects all district and regional headquarters in the country.
The project officially started in February 2009, and is now 90% complete.
Last Mile Connectivity
128 Higher Education and Research Institutions were identified to be connected through the NREN.
Because of the limited funds available for phase 1 of the STHEP implementation, recommendations
were made to connect only 28 higher education and research institutions in phase 1 and the
remaining institutions to be connected in phase 2. By December 2014 18 Institutions will be
connected with a minimum of 8Mbps connectivity.
ICT Applications
Building on the NICTBB and NREN, STHEP intended to implement both an Education Management
Information System (EMIS) and an e-Library system to support education and research activities.
The e-Library system includes both library management system (LMS) functionality, as well as
digital library functionality, i.e. making digital content available for direct access by end users
through digital technologies. The EMIS and e-Library systems may each consist of more than one
software application.
154 www.ternet.or.tz
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The piloting for E-libraries and EMIS was undertaken with eight institutions from February 2013.
Individual consultants were hired by COSTECH to deploy EMIS and E-library systems. Eight
institutions, including national agencies were selected as pilots for the EMIS system; five out of the
eight institutions were pilots for the E-library system. The pilot institutions were Tanzania National
Parks (TANAPA), University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), Muhimbili University of Health and Allied
Sciences (MUHAS), Mzumbe University (Morogoro Campus), State University of Zanzibar (SUZA),
Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU), Higher Education Student Loan Board (HESLB) and
National Council for Technical Education (NACTE).
Connectivity Arrangement
Initially the Open University of Tanzania (OUT), Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT),
College of Business Education (CBE), Ardhi University (ARU), Herbart Kairuki Memorial University
of Medicine, Institute of Transport, Mikocheni Agriculture Research Institute (MARI), Tanzania
Industrial Research and Development Organization (TIRDO) were connected to the COSTECH
NOC and directly linked with European GEANT2 through the Ubuntu Alliance. By December 2015
eighteen institutions were to be connected to the STM1 capacity providing a minimum of 8Mbps per
institution.
Funding agency: World Bank
17.3.3 eHealth Strategy
The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MOHSW) is overseeing the development of an ICT
strategy for guiding ICT applications in the sector. As part of ongoing health sector reforms, the
Health Sector Strategic Plan III (HSSP III) has been developed to guide priority setting and
deployment of resources in the health sector. While it is recognised that ICT has the potential to
transform healthcare delivery, the national health sector has seen a fragmented landscape of ICT
pilot projects and numerous data and Health Information System silos with inherent barriers to
information sharing. The strategy aims to put better coordination in place to reduce duplication of
effort, creation of new applications that are not interoperable and ineffective expenditure. It has
been developed through a participatory process with stakeholders (workshops, survey, discuss
groups, interviews) and a review of the World Health Organization (WHO) eHealth strategy
development toolkit vision.
It is planned that by 2018, eHealth will provide a sustainable and efficient health system for citizens
that guarantees patient information rights, integrity and confidentiality. Strategic areas of
implementation identified include: eHealth Foundations, eHealth Solutions, Change Management
and Governance structures to ensure good coordination and oversight of the national eHealth
program.
Funding: from the Government of Tanzania, with the process facilitated by the International Institute
for Communication and Development of The Netherlands.
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Geographic scope: National covering all health facilities and agencies.
17.3.5 TANZICT
TANZICT155 is an Information Society and ICT Sector development bi-lateral project between the
Government of Tanzania and the Government of Finland, which is hosted by COSTECH and
commenced in August 2011. It is focused on strengthening the Tanzania Information Society
through a revision of the national ICT Policy and associated Implementation, strengthening the
institutional capacity of MCST and creating a Tanzania Innovation programme. It has created a
community spirit through support for pre-Incubation, training for women entrepreneurs, community
events and hands-on support.
TANZICT set up an open Innovation Space and pre-Incubation space in October 2011 on the
ground floor of COSTECH, which is now called Buni Hub. The Innovation Space provides co-
working space with WiFi Internet access for up to 40 people, a meeting space for up to 60 people,
regular training and networking events.
TANZICT co-operated with IIMC in relation to the second IST-Africa Living Lab Workshop156 in Dar
es Salaam in May 2012. TANZICT is providing hands on support to emerging Living Labs in Iringa,
Kigamboni, Mwanza, Mbeya, Zanzibar and Arusha.
TANZICT launched the FEMTANZ 3 month Programme in December 2012 to provide business
support training to women who wish to establish the grow their own technology-enabled businesses.
Participants came together in Dar es Salaam for three 2.5 day workshops during December 2012,
January 2013 and February 2013. The initial training was provided by Tina James and Jill Sawers of
FEMTECH. Fifteen people were involved in the first course, which was provided free of charge in
English and three people were trained as trainers.
TANZICT and DTBi launched joint Call for Pre-Incubation and Incubation.
TANZICT and COSTECH launched an ICT Innovation Fund in 2012 to provide seed funding to
develop a prototype or pilot a service, which is managed by COSTECH and funded by TANZICT
The grant ($7,000 - $10,000) is focused on funding development of a prototype, technical work and
technical skills but is not aimed at supporting the running costs of a start-up. It is a requirement that
the recipient is hosted at an existing Incubator or Hub such as DTBI, Buni Hub, university incubator
or KINU Innovation Hub that can provide mentoring and monitor their progress. The first Call for
Applications closed in November 2012, received 25 applications with the first cohort of six grantees
announced in April 2013 with funding of €50,000 in total. The second call received 44 applications
with ten grantees announced in October 2014 and funding of €70,000 in total. The third Call closed
in September 2014 and seven projects were funded. The four Call closed in May 2015 and received
137 proposals of which 18 innovators were awarded grants with a total funding of €155,000.
155 http://tanzict.or.tz/ 156 http://www.ist-africa.org/home/files/ISTAfrica2012_LivingLabsWorkingGroupMeetingReport.pdf
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The TANZICT project was extended to July 2016. A follow on project is being prepared to
commence during 2016 for 5 years.
Funding: Government of Finland, 5 million euro (Sept 2011 – August 2015, extended to July 2016)
17.3.6 Dar Teknohama Business ICT Incubator (DTBI)
The Dar Teknohama Business Incubator (DTBi)157 was set up in June 2011 under the Public Private
Partnership between InfoDev and COSTECH with grant funding for the first two years to sub-vent
set up costs and training. It is hosted by COSTECH as an Incubator to support local technology-
driven companies as well as young entrepreneurs with high growth potential.
DTBi supports Pre-Incubation in co-operation with TANZICT, where the criteria are to have a
disruptive business idea that is implement able or existing prototype, potential for scalability and
ability to create greater social and economic impact. Pre-Incubatees are provided with desk space
and Internet access for three months while they develop their ideas. They make a contribution of 50
USD per month towards operational costs or provide in kind services (management of network,
website etc). It is expected that a prototype will be developed, company registration in place and to
have started a marketing and business plan within this three month window.
DTBi also provides Incubation for companies – residential or virtual. There are specific criteria to
quality and residential incubates pay a subsidised rent per month. DTBi works on a Royalties
model. DTBi provides loan guarantees for incubated companies with signed private sector or public
sector contracts who need working capital. DTBi was the implementing partner for the InfoDev East
Africa Virtual Incubation pilot launched in January 2013.
In June 2014, Tigo Tanzania signed a partnership with DTBi and COSTECH which aims to support
10 scholarships per year for Masters students, an internship programme and employment
opportunities.
Over the past four years, DTBi has mentored a mix of 35 technology entrepreneurs and start up
companies. DTBi has also helped incubatees receive more than $80,000 in funding during
2014/2015 and assisted in securing loan guarantees to enable them to secure operating capital to
scale their business. Incubatees have created more than 4,750 jobs.
Funding: InfoDev and COSTECH
17.3.7 KINU
KINU158 was established in January 2012 as a social enterprise to provide an open space for
Tanzania's tech community to foster co-creation, innovation and capacity building. Initial funding
towards operational costs was secured from Indigo Trust and Google Africa. Other partners include
157 http://www.teknohama.or.tz/ 158 http://www.kinu.co.tz/
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SMILE and RAHA. In September 2012 SEACOM donated 30mb of Internet connectivity for one year
to support KINU. Samsung provided equipment for a test lab.
KINU was formally launched as an Innovation Hub on 14 September 2012 with participation from
H.E. Hon January Makamba, Deputy Minister of Communications, Science and Technology,
entrepreneurs, industry, academia and media.
KINU provides co-working space, dedicated working space, facilities for application testing,
workshops and training courses to support the tech community (start-ups, freelancers, SMEs and
established companies). Regular training courses include CSS/Java, Cyber Security and Search
engine optimisation. Past events organised included information sessions on upcoming
competitions (Google Apps Developer Challenge, African News Innovation Challenge, Vodacom
AppsStar), funding opportunities (Savannah Fund), Mobile Monday meetings, Workshops on Open
source software, Policy discussions on the ICT Policy and IP Laws, Google MapUp Events for
Google Student Ambassadors and supporting participation in the Sanitation Hackathon.
To assist in developing skills, KINU started a Code Ninja Programme, which takes place on a
Saturday every two months to test competencies in different programme languages as part of
programming competitions that are judged by an automated judging system.
KINU supports a more active role for women and children in technology. KINU is co-organising a
Girls Nights Out session for 2.5 hours once a month with TANZICT to support female entrepreneurs
to leverage ICT in their businesses. An agreement has been reached with ISOC to provide training
for women and to support 2 – 3 Tanzanian women to become ISOC certified trainers. A six-week
Robotics Programme has been run for children (6 – 12 year olds) of members of the KINU
community during 2013 and future coding programs for children are planned.
17.3.8 Tanzania ICT Technology Park
Over the next 5 years, the ICT Technology Park, a Public and Private Partnership between the
Government of Tanzania and SEACOM, will become a focal point for innovation, and include an
Incubator providing co-working space, seed funding, training and mentorship for ICT entrepreneurs.
Good progress has been made in identifying locations. The areas for the park has been confirmed
in Bagamoyo and classified as a Special Export Zone, thus attracting low tax and tariffs, with
SEACOM providing bandwidth. The data centre will be managed by NIDA as a 2 Tier data centre
suitable for government, private sector and multinationals. The Park will help provide jobs by
housing multinational enterprises and startup incubators, which will encourage them to interact.
Preparation of a master plan for the Park is expected to be completed during 2016. Quality
infrastructure and high Internet connectivity will be made available within the ICT park. The national
backbone is directly connected to India and neighbouring countries. The park also aims to house a
University for research and development in the long run.
Funding: SEACOM and COSTECH
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17.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
17.4.1 National Priorities
National Priorities include: eInfrastructures, Cloud Computing/ High Performance Computing, Cyber
Security, Mobile Computing, ICT for Creativity and Learning, eHealth and eAgriculture.
Cyber Security – To create a secure and safe cyber space for economic development.
Institutions involved include: Institute of Financial Management, Dar es Salaam Institute of
Technology, University of Dar es Salaam, State University of Zanzibar
High Performance Computing / Cloud Computing – To improved industrial development and
service delivery (data analysis, business intelligence, data mining and warehousing). Institutions
involved include: Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology
Mobile Computing and Mobile Apps – To support job creation and government service delivery.
Institutions involved include: University of Dar es Salaam, University of Dodoma, Dar es Salaam
Institute of Technology, Institute of Financial Management, State University of Zanzibar
ICT for Creativity and Learning – Life long learning and the creation of a knowledge society and
knowledge economy. Institutions involved include: University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam
Institute of Technology, Institute of Financial Management, Open University
17.4.2 National Research Capacity
Based on a consultation process, the following Universities and research centres in Tanzania
undertaking ICT-related initiatives have identified their areas of research expertise and track record.
A summary of these findings are provided below:
University of Dar es Salaam
Depts include: School of Informatics and Communication Technologies159, College of
Engineering160, University Computing Centre161
Research focus includes: Computer Engineering and Computer Science, Technology-
enhanced Learning, Mobile Computing, Cyber Security
University of Dodoma162
Depts include: School of Informatics
Research focus includes: Informatics and Technology-enhanced Learning, Mobile
Computing, Advanced Computing, Future Internet
159 http://www.sict.udsm.ac.tz/ 160 http://coet.udsm.ac.tz/ 161 http://www.ucc.co.tz/ 162 http://www.udom.ac.tz
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Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology163
Depts include: Centre for ICT Excellence
Research focus includes: High Performance Computing, Cyber Security, Mobile Computing,
Technology-enhanced Learning, Future Internet
Institute of Financial Management164
Depts include: Computer Science, Information Technology, Centre for ICT Research and
Innovations
Research focus includes: Mobile Computing, Information Systems Security and Forensics,
Technology-enhanced Learning
Nelson-Mandela Institution of Science and Technology165
Depts include: School of Computational and Communication Science and Engineering
(CoCSE) (Masters and PhDs) - Applied Mathematics and Computational Science (AMCS),
Information Technology Development and Management (ITDM), Communication Science
and Engineering (CoSE)
Research focus includes: Energy, ICT, Environment and Water, Life Sciences and Bio-
Engineering
Muslim University of Morogoro
Depts include: Information Technology
Research focus includes: Data mining, Machine Learning, Pattern recognition, Technology-
enhanced Learning
University of Bagamoyo
Depts include: ICT & Geo Informatics
Research focus includes: Technology-enhanced Learning, eGovernment, eAgriculture,
Cyber Law and Cyber Security
Ardhi University
Depts include: Centre for Information and Communication Technology166
Open University of Tanzania167
Research focus includes: Environmental Issues; Agriculture & Food Security, Technology-
enhanced Learning, ICT, Cyber Security, Health
Ifakara Health Institute168
Research focus includes: Health Sciences, eHealth, Health Information Systems
163 http://www.dit.ac.tz/ 164 http://www.ifm.ac.tz/ 165 http://www.nm-aist.ac.tz/ 166 http://www.aru.ac.tz/cat.php?id=25 167 http://www.out.ac.tz/ 168 http://www.ihi.or.tz/
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Muhimbili University of Health Sciences169
Research focus includes: Health Sciences, Health Informatics, Technology-enhanced
Learning in the Health domain
Sokoine University of Agriculture170
Research focus include: eAgriculture, Food Security, eHealth, Data mining, Technology-
enhanced learning
17.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders the following thematic areas are considered to be
important in the context of the ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Partners include
eHealth Ifakara Health Institute; Muhimbili University of Health Sciences; Sokoine University of Agriculture; Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences; Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College
eAgriculture Sokoine University of Agriculture
17.4.4 Mapping to H2020 Themes
The initial mapping to Horizon 2020 Research areas is summarised below:
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Advanced Computing Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology: High Performance Computing
University of Dodoma
Future Internet University of Dodoma
Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology
Content Technologies & Information Management
University of Dar es Salaam: Technology-enhanced Learning
Institute of Financial Management: Technology-enhanced Learning
Open University: Technology-enhanced Learning
Muslim University of Morogoro: Data mining, Machine Learning, Pattern recognition, Technology-enhanced Learning
Sokoine University of Agriculture: Data mining, Machine Learning, Technology-enhanced Learning
University of Bagamoyo: Technology-enhanced Learning, eGovernment, eAgriculture, Cyber Law and Cyber Security
169 http://www.muchs.ac.tz 170 http://www.suanet.ac.tz/
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Nelson Mandela University Arusha
Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health Ifakara Health Institute: Health Sciences, eHealth, Health Information Systems
Muhimbili University of Health Sciences: Health Sciences, Health Informatics
Sokoine University of Agriculture: eHealth
Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences
Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture Sokoine University of Agriculture: Sustainable Agriculture, Food Security
Open University: Agriculture and Food Security
Energy Ardhi University
Transport Ardhi University
National Institute of Transport
Climate Action, Environment, Resource Efficiency and Raw Materials
Open University: Environmental Issues
Inclusive, Innovative and Reflective Societies
University of Bagamoyo: eGovernment
Secure Societies Institute of Financial Management (Centre for ICT Research and Innovation): Information Systems Security and Forensics
Open University: Cyber Security
Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology: Cyber Security
University of Bagamoyo: Cyber Law and Cyber Security
University of Dodoma
Level of Research Maturity
Tanzania has good research capacity and a track record of collaborative research having
participated in more than 39 projects and securing research funding of over €12 million under FP7.
There is a strong policy focus (driven by COSTECH, MCST and TCRA) on further strengthening the
research capacity within the country, increasing the focus of research activities on their contribution
to socio-economic impact, and facilitating the continued development of post-graduate programmes.
Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH) conveys an annual meeting to
discuss STI indicators to determine current research being undertaken. Research Capacity is
validated based on Number of Publications, Researchers, and the productions that are known
locally or internationally.
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18. TUNISIA
18.1 Introduction
Tunisia is located in North Africa, in the eastern part of the
Maghreb; bordered to the north and east by the Mediterranean
Sea, to the south by Libya and to the West by Algeria; a
crossroads between Europe on the one hand and the Middle East
and Africa on the other hand. The name Tunisia is derived from
its historic and economic capital, Tunis, located in the northeast
and known as Carthage City. Tunisia has a surface area of
almost 164,000 square kilometres (64,000 sq mi), made up of 24
governorates (administrative divisions). The population as at July
2015 was estimated at 11.037 million inhabitants with a literacy
rate of 81.8% (CIA World Factbook). 69 percent of the total
population is between 15 and 64 years of age. Tunis, the capital
city, has a population of 1.993 million (2015, CIA World
Factbook). The official language is Arabic, and French and
English are also fluently spoken.
Located on the south west of the Mediterranean Sea, Tunisia has
a strategic location and is diversity in climate and natural
environment. Its Mediterranean coasts: west – east in the north,
and north - south in the east open a wide space for the
movement of people and goods. Tunisia has 1,300 kilometres
(810 mi) of coastline. The north and centre of the country consist particularly of fertile soil and the
south of the country is composed of desert areas and fertile oases.
In Tunisia, education is given a high priority and accounts for almost 7% of GNP. Since 1991, a
basic education has been compulsory for children between the ages of 6 and 16. Tunisia was
ranked 17th in the category of "quality of the higher educational system" and 21st in the category of
"quality of primary education" in The Global Competitiveness Report 2008-9, published by The
World Economic Forum.
Tunisia has a developing economy. High quality tourist facilities are widely available in large urban
and major resort areas. Tunisia has close social and cultural ties and economic cooperation
agreements with Europe. Tunisian exports to the European Union market have consistently grown.
Tunisia considers the development of ICT in economic and social activities, health, e-learning,
renewable energy and control of natural environments to be important. Tunisia endeavours to put
the best ICT infrastructures in place to support economic growth, combined with highly qualified
workforce to attract national and foreign investors in ICT and related technologies.
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In terms of Communications, there are three main phone companies (Tunisie Telecom, Oreedoo
and Orange) and one main Internet wholesaler (Agence Tunisienne de l’Internet). Since January
2013, the three phone companies had direct access to the international Internet backbone. Based
on statistics published by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and the Ministry
of Information and Communication Technologies171, the levels of mobile subscriptions continue to
increase gradually from 14 million in 2014 to 15 million in 2015.
During 2014, the number of Internet subscribers increased to 1.57 million and 1.74 million by May
2015
There are 13 public universities (more than 200 public institutions) and 60 private institutions of
higher education. Of these 30 have Departments focused on ICT/Engineering.
18.2 ICT Background
Tunisia has a good policy framework in place including the updated ICT Policy,
eGovernment and eAdministration Strategy (2005) and National Development Strategies.
Tele-centres exist in almost every town and village.
The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has highlighted that ICT and
particularly the software industry, services and multimedia stand out as the main focus of
Tunisia’s ICT development strategy. The ICT sector is dynamic and is considered to be a
priority sector with one of the highest growth rates (17.5% in 2007-2011) and good
contribution to GDP. During the period 2007-2011 there was a growth in investment and
profits derived from investments of about 6.3 billion dinars (3.03 billion Euro) compared with
171 http://www.mincom.tn
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430 million dinars during the period 1992-1996. This growth is as a result of better
infrastructure and increased private sector involvement (5% in 1992 – 1996 to 40% in 2002-
2006).
Tunisian software firms operate in the following fields:
Strategic planning in communication and information systems
Counselling in information systems and ICT: diagnosis, modelling, and re-engineering studies
Engineering and software development
Communication networks engineering
Embedded systems integration
Integration of communication or information systems (ERP, CRM, BI, Global Banking, solutions
E-Business/e-Trade, Wide Area Networks of companies etc)
Multimedia services engineering
Data management
Data base management or distant services application
The updated ICT policy was reviewed and published with input from the Ministry of Higher
Education and Scientific Research and Ministry of ICT. The eGovernment and eAdministration
Strategy has been in place since 2005 under the eGovernment Unit. Tele-centres exist in every
town and almost every village.
18.2.1 ICT and Telecommunication infrastructure
Tunisia has a National backbone based on fibre optical cables that covers its entire territory and has
multifunction high band switches that provide telephone transfer, Internet and multimedia.
Tunisia is connected to all its neighbouring countries and has optical fibre submarine connections to
Europe, Asia, the Middle East and America. International Internet bandwidth capacity has grown
from 50 Gb/s in 2010 to 130 Gb/s in May 2015. The interconnections has been secured by
diversifying submarine cables (SEA-ME-WE4 and KELTRA 2), by diversifying landing points
(Bizerte and Kelibia in Tunisia, and Marseille, Mazara del Vallo and Palermo in Europe), and also by
installing its own submarine cable, Hannibal, with a capacity of 10 Gbps expandable to 3200 Gbps.
In terms of telecoms infrastructure available for professional and personnel use, Tunisia has:
An Internet network covering the entire country, accessible through 11 Internet service providers
(6 public and 5 private).
A network of data transmission using various technologies: LS, ADSL, MPLS, SDH, dWDM,
Frame Relay, VSAT, UMTS-HSPA++.
ATI172 (Agence Tunisienne de l’Internet - Tunisian Internet Agency), which operates under the
Tunisian Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, was founded in March 1996 to
172 http://www.ati.tn
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promote Internet services in Tunisia. ATI is the wholesale provider of Internet services. It provides
Internet access & services to various ISPs, and its roles include:
The functions of a National Internet Exchange Point (national IXP) for the interconnection of
ISPs to one another and the rest of the Internet; also provide Internet mail gateways service
management for exchanging messages among themselves and with the rest of the internet
Co-Management of the national domain ".tn" with the regulator
Management of IP Addressing in Tunisia
Promotion and Development of the Internet
18.3 Current ICT Initiatives and projects
ICT Initiatives are currently ongoing at national level in the areas of eInfrastructures (Technology
Parks, Cyber Parks) and Support measures for Software companies and to set up ICT companies.
Smart Tunisia is a program for offshoring sector companies, with the ambitious goal of creating
50,000 jobs over the next five years in the areas of offshoring, the Nearshoring and collocation.
Designed as part of a public-private partnership, "Smart Tunisia" responds to offshoring sector
revitalization will, through the provision of incentive mechanisms for the implementation of supply
and convergence demand for employment in the sector. The Tunisian government has allocated a
budget equivalent to €500 million for 5 years in the form of incentives, to support international and
local operators in their growth and development strategies of their activities. The objectives of
"Smart Tunisia" include to create 50,000 jobs over the next 5 years; act as sole contact for the
beneficiaries of the program companies and foreign investors who might be potential beneficiary;
Making Tunisia the leader of the francophone offshoring and elevate Tunisia to the rank of
offshoring hub and platform skills for Europe, Africa and the Middle East. The "Smart Tunisia"
program finds its legal basis in Decree No. 2014-6 of 2 January 2014 which aims to promote
offshoring activities in the field of Information Technology and Communication and the creation of a
management unit.
18.3.1 Initiatives and projects addressing Infrastructures for ICT companies
Tunisia is continuously developing innovative projects in heavy infrastructures for ICT sectors and
related fields, as: technological parks, Poles of competitiveness and cyber parks.
18.3.1.1 Technology Parks
To support the development of companies and the launch of businesses with strong added value in
terms of innovation, Tunisia established an ambitious program for the development of 10
technological parks. This program currently comprises three parks specializing in ICT:
Data processing and multimedia in Sfax;
Data processing and electronics in Sousse;
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Communication technologies in Tunis, in addition to an ICT component in all the other parks
(bio-informatics).
This environment has fostered synergies between industry, research and educational universities.
The technological parks have also promoted the emergence and development of innovative foreign
and Tunisian companies.
The first technological park dedicated to ICT in Tunisia and North Africa, was Elgazala Technopole,
which began its activities at the end of the 1990s. It accommodates over 90 companies employing
1650 people including 98% who are graduates. It also exports 75% of site production. Elgazala
Technopole hosts some of the most prestigious multinationals such as Alcatel, Ericsson, Huawei
Technologies, STMicroelectronics, Stone Soft, Kromberg Shubert and others. In order to meet an
increasing demand, two additional sites will be annexed to Elgazala Technopole: Ennahli on 36
hectares and Manouba on 54 hectares.
18.3.1.2 Poles of competitiveness
Eight sectoral poles of national competence or regional competitiveness have been implemented to
widen the sphere of activity of the technological parks and to reinforce the potential of sectoral
innovation, clustering, development of technological partnerships and for the support of company
creation.
18.3.1.3 Cyber Parks
A network of cyber parks dedicated to providing on-line services was established across the entire
country resulting in 14 cyber parks being in place by 2009.
18.3.2 Support for Investment in ICT
Tunisia has shown a significant interest in the development of ICT with concrete support to the
development of the private sector, the environment, infrastructure and the legislative framework.
Indeed, a set of incentives was set up and promoted Tunisia as a favourable site for the
development of ICT.
18.3.2.1 Support for Setting up ICT companies
The main support programs are RITI, SICAR, BFPME, SOTUGAR, business incubators, etc.
RITI173: funds capital risks with public participation for the promotion of entrepreneurial activities
in ICT. In order to encourage the creation of innovative enterprises in the field of ICT, young
Tunisian promoters holding university degrees may have access to the System of Incentives for
Innovation in the Field of Information Technologies (RITI) for new projects. The RITI's share can
be up to 49% of the project's capital; the promoter's contribution should be at least 2% of the
project's capital.
173 http://www.eriti.mincom.tn
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Private capital risk funds for ICT: Investment companies with Capital Risks (SICAR)
Bank financing of SMEs (BFPME)
Guarantee funds (SOTUGAR)
A 10-year national plan for technological parks
Network of 30 business incubators (2010): an incubator for every technological higher
education/educational institution. The 30 business incubators in Tunisia networked through the
“Business Incubators Network in Tunisia”. Three kinds of Business Incubators operating in
Tunisian Incubators promoted by academic institutions, incubators operating under "Convention
API / Universities" and Incubators backed to technoparks.
A network of 14 cyber parks
18.3.2.2 Support for Software Firms
Support for Software Firms includes:
Legislation specific to stock options in favour of ICT companies
Exemption of VAT on ICT training carried out by specialized companies
Government subsidisation of 70% of the costs of certification of companies and competencies.
Removal of the ceiling for travelling expenses abroad which are deductible from the wage bill
subject to compliance with national insurance contributions
18.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
Tunisia invests in education and training to realise highly qualified human resources. Tunisia has
made sustained efforts to improve its competencies and devotes nearly 7% of the state budget to
education. This effort can be seen in the education statistics outlined below:
13 public universities and a virtual university
More than 200 public higher education institutions and 44 private institutions of higher education
There were 322,000 registered students at teh end of 2014 (including 61% female)
Almost 13,000 students in high standing European, Canadian and American universities
Computerization and internet connectivity of all higher education institutions
More than 53,000 students enrolled in ICT training – representing approximately 16.6% of the
student population
More than 10,250 ICT graduates per year (around 16% of total graduation)
More than 200 ICT training specializations within more than 50 public and private higher
education institutions
Tunisia regards the mastery of knowledge and technology as a crucial factor in economic and social
development. The country is constantly consolidating investment in knowledge and adjusting the
education system and training, to guarantee the competencies required by the workplace. It also
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aims at reinforcing the spirit of initiative, creativity and innovation. This effort has been the
background for smart specialization, where a progressive and swift consolidation of scientific
curricula and teaching material content in short and long term training courses of the higher
education and vocational training institutions was carried out. This was based on:
Cut-backs in training costs
Intensive use of modern communication networks and the possibilities they offer
Promotion of scientific research
Languages: Arabic, French, English, German, Italian, Spanish and others
In addition to the investment in education, Tunisia is trying to enhance the quality of ICT companies.
Conscious of the importance of certification of companies and competencies in order to guarantee a
high quality of services and products and constant improvement, Tunisia engaged early in a
program of ISO certification. Special programs of work certifications were also set up. This entailed
a number of certified companies such as CMMI, ITIL and CISA. Thus, Tunisia has the first CMMI
level 5 certified companies in Africa.
18.4.1 National Priorities
National ICT Priorities include to:
Improve the eInfrastructure, Services and trusted Networks – to create new jobs, update ICT
infrastructures and enhance the research and learning facilities. Institutions involved include:
ENIT, University of Tunis El Manar; ENSI, University of Manouba; ENIS, University of Sfax;
INSAT, EPT and SupCom University of Carthage
Improve the Knowledge Economy and eServices through the deployment of ICT (eHealth,
eAgriculture, eLearning, eAdministration, eGovernment) and help the creation of new innovative
SMEs and growth in existing SMEs. Institutions involved include: ENSI, University of Manouba;
ENIS, University of Sfax; SupCom, and INSAT: University of Carthage; ENSIT, University of
Tunis
ICT for Energy Efficiency – development of Smart electrical grid and renewable energy use,
enhancement of energy efficiency in transportation. Institutions involved include: ENIT,
University of Tunis El Manar; ENSI, University of Manouba; ENIS, University of Sfax; INSAT and
SupCom University of Carthage
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18.4.2 National Research Capacity
The table below provides an overview of universities with ICT/Engineering Courses:
Institution Location Total Students
ICT/Engineering Department(s)
ICT/Engineering Teaching Staff
Undergraduate Students
Post-Graduate Masters, PhD
University of Tunis
Tunis 20400 (2015)
Higher School of Sciences and Techniques of Tunis
77 1826 119
University of Tunis El Manar
Tunis El Manar
34786 (2015)
Faculty of Mathematical, Physical and Natural Sciences of Tunis National School of Engineers of Tunis Higher Institute of Computer Science of El Manar
179 4763 203
University of Carthage
Carthage 32920 (2015)
Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte Tunisia Polytechnic School Higher School of Technology and Computer Science of Carthage National Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Mateur
256 4842 90
University of Manouba
Manouba 18167 (2015)
Higher Institute of Multimedia Arts of Manouba National School of Computer Sciences
92 5602 74
University of Jendouba
Jendouba 9061 (2015)
Higher Institute of Computer Science of El Kef Faculty of Juridical, Economic Sciences and Management of Jendouba
45 2575 69
University of Sousse
Sousse 31002 (2015)
Higher Institute of Computer Sciences and Communication Techniques of Hammam Sousse National Engineering School of Sousse
151 4004 99
University of Monastir
Monastir 22961 (2015)
Faculty of Sciences of Monastir National Engineering School of Monastir Higher Institute of Computer Sciences and Mathematics of Monastir
107 3529 11
174 www.isima.rnu.tn
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Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Mahdia Higher Institute of Computer Science of Mahdia174
University of Kairouan
Kairouan 10435 (2015)
Higher Institute of Computer Science and Management of Kairouan Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Kairouan Higher Institute of Applied Mathematics and Computer Science of Kairouan
64 1976 132
University of Sfax Sfax 35009 (2015)
National Engineering School of Sfax Faculty of Sciences of Sfax Higher Institute of Electronic and Communication of Sfax Higher Institute of Computer Science and Multimedia of Sfax
261 5445 352
University of Gafsa
Gafsa 8920 (2015)
Faculty of Sciences of Gafsa Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Gafsa Higher Institute of Sciences and Energy Technology of Gafsa
57 1730 44
University of Gabes
Gabes 17903 (2015)
Faculty of Sciences of Gabes National Engineering School of Gabes Higher Institute of Computer Sciences and Multimedia of Gabes Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Gabes Higher Institute of Industrial Systems of Gabes Higher Institute of Computer Sciences of Medenine
154 4455 48
Higher Institute of Technological Studies
Tunis 29340 (2015)
Department of Computer Sciences
743 8214 0
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The following universities and research centres in Tunisia are undertaking ICT-related initiatives:
University of Tunis175- Higher School of Sciences and Techniques of Tunis
Research focus: e-learning, image and video processing, signal processing, embedded
systems, WSN, wireless communications, Encryption;
University of Tunis El Manar176
Faculty of Mathematical, Physical and Natural Sciences of Tunis: Algorithmic and heuristic
programming; Parallel algorithms and data analysis
National School of Engineers of Tunis (ENIT): Coding, transmission and protection of
information; Microwave and antennas; Guided optics and integrated cellular radio networks,
Networks and Systems, Embedded communicating Systems; audio Tattoo; Energy efficiency
– smart grids, home grids, transport; Optical Communication systems; Photonic crystal
structures – solar cells; Parallel Computing and Simulation Software; eHealth; Self-
management of health; Smart cities; Smart electricity Grids; Smart Metering; Big Data,
Machine Learning; Advanced Data Mining
Higher Institute of Computer Science of El Manar: Software Engineering and Information
Systems, systems architecture and networks; industrial computer science;
University of Carthage177
Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte178: Computer sciences
Tunisia Polytechnic School179: Optical, Microwave and wireless networks and systems;
Higher School of Technology and Computer Science of Carthage (ESTI) 180: Computer
Systems and Software, Network Management and Services;
National Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology (INSAT) 181: Optimization of Wireless
Networks of the future; Internet of things; Operation and management of large volumes of
data; Interoperability between hardware and software components; Supercomputing;
Dependability and Development of safe systems with high time constraints; Robotics, Mobile
networks and computing; Smart Embedded Components and Systems, Smart Integrated
Systems, Systems of Systems and Complex System Engineering, Processor and System
Architecture, Interconnect and Data Localisation Technologies, High Performance
computing, Future Internet, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust,
175 www.utunis.rnu.tn 176 www.utm.rnu.tn 177 www.ucar.rnu.tn 178 www.fsb.rnu.tn 179 www.ept.rnu.tn 180 www.esti.rnu.tn 181 www.insat.rnu.tn
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Technology-enhanced Learning, Content Access and Analytics; Big Data Technologies,
Advanced Data Mining, Machine Learning, Service Robotics, eHealth; Smart cities;
Higher School of Communications (Sup’Com) of Tunis182: ICT for Environment (disaster
management, flood mapping, forest fires etc), Communications – Signal and Image,
Biomedical Audio/image analysis. Signal and image, Smart Embedded Components and
Systems, Technologies for IoT, Processor and System Architecture, Networks, Software and
Services, Cloud Computing, Future Internet, Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust, Wireless
Communication and All Optical Networks, eHealth; Self-management of health; improved
diagnostics; health data collection; Sustainable Agriculture and Forestry; Smart cities;
Energy Efficient buildings; Smart electricity Grids; Smart Transportation
University of Manouba183
National School of Computer Sciences (ENSI) 184: Internet of Things (IoT) Communications
Machine-to-Machine (M2M) & Internet ubiquitously, Green Communications, Smart Grid
Communications, Social Networks, Interconnection and cooperation cyber physical systems
heterogeneous CPU-GPU Hybrid Calculations wide scale optimization, reasoning by
constraints and quality of service in networks techniques cache to minimize network traffic in
applications using streaming media, network quality of service oriented MANETs; Software
engineering, Documental engineering; Linguistics engineering; engineering of knowledge
and information
University of Jendouba185
Faculty of Juridical, Economic Sciences and Management of Jendouba186: Computer
sciences
University of Sousse187
Higher Institute of Computer Sciences and Communication Techniques of Hammam
Sousse: Engineering of knowledge and information
National Engineering School of Sousse 188: Industrial computer sciences
Higher School of Sciences and Technologies of Hammam-Sousse189
University of Monastir190
Faculty of Sciences of Monastir: Digital systems and computer sciences
182 http://www.supcom.mincom.tn 183 www.uma.rnu.tn 184 www.ensi.rnu.tn 185 www.uj.rnu.tn 186 www.fsjegj.rnu.tn 187 www.uc.rnu.tn 188 www.eniso.rnu.tn 189 www.essths.rnu.tn 190 www.um.rnu.tn
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National Engineering School of Monastir
Higher Institute of Computer Sciences and Mathematics of Monastir
Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Mahdia
Higher Institute of Computer Science of Mahdia
University of Kairouan191
Higher Institute of Computer Science and Management of Kairouan192
Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Kairouan193
Higher Institute of Applied Mathematics and Computer Science of Kairouan
University of Sfax 194
National Engineering School of Sfax (ENIS) 195:: Computer sciences, Signal processing; High
Performance computing, Future Internet, Robotics, Mobile networks and computing, Smart
Embedded Components and Systems, Parallel Computing and Simulation Software, Cloud
Computing, Wireless Communication, Technology-enhanced Learning, Advanced Data
Mining, Smart cities; Smart electricity Grids; Smart Transport
Faculty of Sciences of Sfax196: Computer sciences
Higher Institute of Electronic and Communication of Sfax197: Networking
Higher Institute of Computer Science and Multimedia of Sfax198: Multimedia and computer
sciences
University of Gafsa199
Faculty of Sciences of Gafsa200
Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Gafsa
Higher Institute of Sciences and Energy Technology of Gafsa
University of Gabes201
Faculty of Sciences of Gabes202
National Engineering School of Gabes203
Higher Institute of Computer Sciences and Multimedia of Gabes
191 www.univ-k.rnu.tn 192 www.isigk.rnu.tn 193 www.issatkr.rnu.tn 194 www.uss.rnu.tn 195 www.enis.rnu.tn 196 www.fss.rnu.tn 197 www.isecs.rnu.tn 198 www.isimsf.rnu.tn 199 www.ugaf.rnu.tn 200 www.fsgf.rnu.tn 201 www.univgb.rnu.tn 202 www.fsg.rnu.tn 203 www.enig.rnu.tn
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Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Gabes
Higher Institute of Industrial Systems of Gabes
Higher Institute of Computer Sciences of Medenine
Virtual University204: E-learning
18.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders the following thematic areas are considered to be
important in the context of the ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Topics Partners include
eHealth Telemedicine and remote diagnosis, Wireless devices for healthcare; Disease Treatment and Management
Institut Pasteur de Tunis; Neurone Institute; Salah Azaiez Institute of Cancer Studies; ISI, University Tunis El Manar; ENIT, University Tunis El Manar; ENSIT; ENIS; SupCom; Institut National de La Sante Publique;
eAgriculture & Environment
Water management; eAgriculture
INAT Carthage University; ENSI, Manouba University; IRESA; INSAT; ENIT; Institut National des Sciences et Technologies de La Mer; SupCom
Technology-enhanced Learning
Distance Learning; Access to computational grids
Université Virtuelle de Tunis; CCK; ENSI, University of Manouba; INSAT, University of Carthage; SupCom; ATI
eGovernment Service Delivery CNI; ENSI, University of Manouba; INSAT, University of Carthage; ENIS; ENSIT; Université Virtuelle de Tunis
Environment ENIT, Centre International des Technologies de L'environnement de Tunis; SupCom; Institut National Agronomique de Tunisie; Observatoire du Sahara et du Sahel; Centre de Biotechnologie de Sfax - CBS; Centre de Biotechnologie de Borj Cedria; Centre de Recherches et des Technologies des Eaux; Université de Tunis; Sfax University; Institut des Regions Arides
204 www.uvt.rnu.tn
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18.4.4 Mapping to H2020 Themes
The initial mapping to Horizon 2020 Research areas is summarised below:
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Components and Systems SupCom (Dept. of Computer Science and Networks and Doctoral school of ICT): Smart embedded components and systems
ENSI (Dept. of Embedded Systems and Networks and Security Systems): Smart embedded components and systems, technologies for IoT
ENIS (Dept. of Department of Computer Sciences and Applied Mathematics): Smart Embedded Components and Systems, Technologies for IoT, Smart Integrated Systems, Systems of Systems and Complex System Engineering
Advanced Computing ENSI (Dept. of Information Systems and Decision): Processor and system architecture, cloud computing
INSAT (Dept. of Computer Sciences and Mathematics): cloud computing, parallel computing and simulation software
SupCom (Dept. of Computer Science and Networks and Doctoral school of ICT): Processor and system architecture
ENIS (Dept. of Computer Sciences and Applied Mathematics): Processor and System Architecture, Interconnect and Data Localisation Tech, Parallel Computing and Simulation Software.
Future Internet SupCom (Dept. of Computer Science and Networks and Doctoral school of ICT): Networks, Software and Services, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust, Wireless Communication and All Optical Networks
ENSI (Dept. of Embedded Systems and Networks and Security Systems): Networks, Software and Services, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust, Wireless Communication and All Optical Networks, Immersive Interactive Multimedia
ENIS (Dept. of Computer Sciences and Applied Mathematics): Networks, Software and Services, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust, Wireless Communication and All Optical Networks, Immersive Interactive Multimedia
INSAT (Dept. of Computer Sciences and Mathematics): Networks, Software and Services, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, Wireless Communications and All Optical Networks
ENIT (Dept. of ICT): Networks, Software and Services, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, Wireless
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Communications and Optical Networks
University of Tunis (Higher School of Sciences and Techniques): Wireless communications, image and video processing, signal processing
ENIS (University of Sfax): Signal processing, Cloud computing, Wireless Communications
Content Technologies & Information Management
ENSI (Dept. of Information Systems and Decision): Technology-enhanced Learning, Content Access and Analytics; Big Data Technologies' Advanced Data Mining, Machine Learning
ENIS (Dept. of Computer Sciences and Applied Mathematics): Technology-enhanced Learning, Content Access and Analytics; Big Data Technologies' Advanced Data Mining, Machine Learning
University of Tunis (Higher School of Sciences and Techniques): Technology-enhanced Learning
Robotics ENSI (Dept. of Embedded Systems and Networks and Security Systems): Service Robotics, Advanced Interfaces
ENIS (Dept. of Computer Sciences and Applied Mathematics): Service Robotics, Advanced Interfaces
Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health ENIS (Dept. of Computer Sciences and Applied Mathematics): eHealth; Self-management of health; improved diagnostics; health data collection; Active Aging, Independent and Assisted Living; Methods and Data;
SupCom (Dept. of Applied Mathematics, Signals and Communications): eHealth; health data collection
ENSIT (Dept. of Electrical engineering and computer Sciences): eHealth; Self-management of health
Institut Pasteur de Tunis
Institut National de La Sante Publique
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture SupCom (Dept. of Applied Research): eSustainable Agriculture and Forestry;
INSAT (Dept. of Computer Sciences and Mathematics): Management of water resources in arid regions
ENIT (Dept of ICT): Management of water resources in arid regions.
Institut National des Sciences et Technologies de La Mer
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Institution de La Recherche et de L'enseignement Superieur Agricoles Centre de Biotechnologie Borj Cedria
Institut National Agronomique de Tunisie
Ecole Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire
Energy ENIS (Dept. of Electrical engineering): Smart cities; Smart electricity Grids; Smart Metering; Low-Cost, New Knowledge and Technologies
SupCom (Dept. of Electronics, Physics and Propagation): Smart cities; Energy Efficient buildings; Smart electricity Grids;
ENSI (Dept. of Embedded Systems, Networks and Security Systems): Smart cities; Smart electricity Grids; Smart Metering; Low-Cost, New Knowledge and Technologies
ENSIT (Dept. of Electrical engineering and computer Sciences): Smart cities; Smart electricity Grids; Smart Metering; Low-Cost, New Knowledge and Technologies
Alternative Energy Systems SARL
Ecole Nationale d'Ingenieurs de Tunis.
Transport ENSI (Dept. of Embedded Systems, Networks and Security Systems): Smart Transport Equipment, Infrastructures and Services; Innovative Transport Management Systems
ENIS (Dept. of Electrical engineering): Smart Transport Equipment, Infrastructures and Services; Innovative Transport Management Systems
ENSIT (Dept. of Electrical engineering and computer Sciences): Smart Transport Equipment, Infrastructures and Services; Innovative Transport Management Systems
Inclusive, Innovative and Reflective Societies
ENSI (Dept. of Information Systems and Decision): Digital Inclusion; Social Innovation Platforms, eGovernment Services, eSkills, eLearning, eCulture
ENIS (Dept. of Computer Sciences and Applied Mathematics): Digital Inclusion; Social Innovation Platforms, eGovernment Services, eSkills, eLearning, eCulture
ENSIT (Dept. of Electrical engineering and computer Sciences): Digital Inclusion; Social Innovation Platforms, eGovernment Services, eSkills, eLearning, eCulture
Université Virtuelle de Tunis: Technology-enhanced Learning
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Level of Research Maturity
Tunisia has a strong research base and track record having participated in more than 87 projects
and securing over €13.4 million in research funding under FP7. One project was secured in inital
Horizon 2020 Calls. Tunisia has a mature program of research in ICT topics involving a large
number of institutions and research laboratories and post-graduation programmes that involve
universities and ICT companies. A good indicator of this strong scientific activity is the number of
scientific publications, international projects and patents issued by these research activities. Tunisia
has a program of cooperation with several institutions in neighbouring countries, European
countries, North American and other countries. This cooperation has facilitated the development of
research projects that involves foreign research organizations and local and international
companies. These activities have provided a forum for mutual knowledge of potential RDI operators
of telecommunications networks, structures for ICT research, the major companies operating in the
sector. Tunisia is positioning itself as a main regional hub for the Mediterranean region in ICT
research and development activities. Tunisia supports structures for innovation and foreign partners
to build relationships and partnerships and prepare for calls to RDI projects in ICT in Tunisia.
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19. REPUBLIC OF UGANDA
19.1 Introduction
The Republic of Uganda is located in East Africa, bordered
by Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Rwanda,
Sudan and Tanzania. Uganda has an area of 241,038 km²
and 112 administrative districts. The population as at July
2014 was estimated at 35.9 million inhabitants with a
literacy rate of 78.4% (CIA World Factbook). Forty nine
percent of the population is between 15 and 64 years of
age. Kampala, the capital city, has a population of 1.936
million (2015, CIA World Factbook). English is the official
language.
Uganda is a fertile country with regular rainfall and mineral
deposits of copper, cobalt and gold. Oil has recently been
discovered. Agriculture is the most important sector of the economy, employing over 80% of the
work force, followed by services and industry.
Uganda is striving to meet the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) development
objectives laid out in the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Plan of Action. According
to Uganda Communications Commission there were 22.9 million telecom subscriber as at
September 2015. In terms of ICT Infrastructure, there are three Submarine cables supplying
Uganda: TEAMS, SEACOM and EASSy. The National Data Transmission Backbone Infrastructure
(NBI) and Electronic Government Infrastructure (EGI) are being implemented by NITA-U as a
public-private partnership project. Phases I and II of the NBI / EGI resulted in the laying of
1536.39Km of Optical Fibre Cable across the country to build the National Data Transmission
Backbone and setting up of the NBI primary data centre and Metropolitan Area Network (MAN). The
MAN network consists of the
connectivity of 27 ministries and
some departments through the
laying of optical fibre cable onto
the e-government network.
Twenty-two district headquarters
across the country were been
connected and are benefiting
directly from the project.
The Rural Communications
Development Fund (RCDF),
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which has been established over 5 years ago, is the Universal Service Fund, which facilitates
services to be provided as public private partnerships in rural areas. UCC subsidises these
interventions, which has resulted in Internet Points of presence, Internet cafes, multi-purposes
community tele-centres, ICT laboratories in schools etc.
There are eight public Universities, 33 Private Universities, 40 public Tertiary Institutions and 51
private Tertiary Institutions in Uganda.
19.2 ICT Background
Uganda’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector is one of the most vibrant and
fastest growing sectors since its liberalization in 2010, supported by a good ICT legal and regulatory
framework. The ICT sector is regarded as a vital pillar for the social economic development of the
country as indicated in the current National Development Plan (2010/11 - 2014/15). The integration
of ICT into the NDP will increase growth, income and employment through skilled and semi skilled
job creation. It is committed towards improvement of government service delivery through eHealth,
eEducation, eGovernance, eCommerce and trade. The ICT sector is divided into three areas
namely; Policy, Regulatory and Operational with the Ministry of ICT as the lead agency.
There are five telecom providers: MTN, Airtel, Uganda Telecom Ltd, Orange and Smile.
Infrastructure capacity is rapidly improving. The National Data Transmission Backbone
Infrastructure (NBI) and the Optical Fibre Cable across the country is well developed, connecting
major economic centres.
The Government of Uganda has recognised the critical importance of ICT in national development,
and has initiated a policy framework to implement these technologies throughout the country. A
number of policy and regulatory reforms have been undertaken over the past decade to promote
development of ICT infrastructure and increase access to affordable communications and IT
services. The main policies that support Innovation in Uganda include:
a) Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (August 2009) – Implemented through the National
Science, Technology and Innovation Plan 2012/2013 – 2017/2018. Expected outputs include a
Science and Technology Park and Incubation Centres.
b) Information Communication Technology Policy (October 2003) reviewed in 2012 and approved
in FY 2014/2015
c) Rural Communications Development Policy implemented by Uganda Communications
Commission (UCC) as Rural Communications Development Fund (RCDF) / Universal Service
Fund
d) eGovernment Strategy, formulated in 2004 and approved by Cabinet in June 2011
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e) Telecom Sector Policy (1996) combined with the Uganda Communication Act 1997 (Laws of
Uganda Cap 106) resulted in licenses being issued to telecommunications operators, an
independent regulator and deregulation of the market
f) National Broadcasting Policy
Uganda has received substantial support from donor agencies in the area of ICT for development.
This has translated into a myriad of ICT projects being implemented in various sectors of Ugandan
society, most notably in rural infrastructure, education, livelihoods and health. A wide range of
Internet points of presence, Internet cafes, training centres, tele-centres, ICT Labs in Schools,
Higher Education institutions and Health clinics were implemented by the Rural Communications
Development Fund (RCDF)205.
A lot of milestones in terms of policies were achieved during FY 2014/2015 including approval of the
National ICT Policy; ICT Strategic and Investment plan developed; Principles of Data Protection and
Privacy Bill approved and draft Bill developed; technical support provided to UBC and UCC on
analogue to digital migration; Principles for Digital Broadcasting Bill (amendment of Uganda
Communications Act 2013) were drafted; first draft of National Broadcasting strategy developed and
public awareness campaign on the Regulations for Cyber Laws (Electronic Transaction Act and
Electronic Signatures Act) undertaken.
19.3 Current ICT Initiatives and projects
Uganda is currently implementing ICT-related initiatives in the areas of eInfrastructure (Research
and Education Network Uganda, Broadband Services ERT Programme, National Backbone,
Migration from Analogue to Digital Broadcasting Project, eNetwork project), eGovernment
(Electronic Government Infrastructure, Voter Registration, National Identify Cards project,
ICT4Democracy in East Africa project), Technology-enhanced Learning (Connect Ed project,
National Curriculum Development Centre, VSAT project, SchoolNet Uganda, Content Development
at National Teachers Colleges, Connecting Classrooms project, Improving Learning Outcomes
through ICT project, ITELE for ICT project, Helping teachers use ICT for Teaching project), eHealth
(Improving health care delivery, Health Child project, Electronic Rural Health Information Project,
Malaria Diagnostic Systems project), eCommerce (District Business Information Systems, Reflect
ICT Resource Centre, Village Phone Project), ICT for Rural Development and Entrepreneurship
(Microsoft Innovation Centre).
19.3.1 Research and Education Network Uganda (RENU)
RENU206 was set up in 2006 as a not-for-profit limited company owned by the universities and
research institutions through the Vice Chancellors Forum to establish a Research and Education
205 http://www.ucc.co.ug/data/smenu/71/Rural-Communications-Development-Fund---RCDF.html 206 http://renu.ac.ug/
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Network (NREN) for Uganda. The Uganda Communications Commission granted RENU a special
license to operate a private communications network that can provide an international gateway and
transmit members’ traffic from NRENS in neighbouring countries.
RENU is a member of UbutuNet Alliance, part of AfricaConnect, and has an agreement with the
Dutch NREN, which facilitates network equipment procurement at discounted prices.
It is currently hosted in Makerere University and has 10 – 12 active members (public and private
universities), who all pay the same membership fee. This facilitates group purchasing of bandwidth.
The Board of Directors is representative of academia and industry. At present RENU has an ICT
Directors Forum and a Librarian meeting. In the future it would like to have a Researchers Forum to
facilitate sharing of experiences and an annual research conference to ensure good awareness of
the research being undertaken at national level. During 2015 Direct Engineering Assistance
agreements with signed with eight universities (Gulu University, Uganda Christian University
(Mukono and Mbale campuses) Nkumba University, Makerere University, Mult-Tech Business
School, Uganda Management Institute, Ndejje University and Uganda Martyrs University - Nkozi).
RENU is a beneficiary under AfricaConnect and Africa Connect 2 eInfrastructure projects through
UbuntuNet Alliance to a transcontinental network. A point of presence was put in place during 2014
- 2015.
19.3.2 World Bank Cycle II project Development Process
The World Bank Board approved a total grant amount of US$8 million for ERT cycle II programme
under an ICT sub-component. The main investment programme of the project includes sub county
broadband services for Northern Uganda and Communication Information Centres are planned to
be implemented. The National Commission for Science and Technology put the criteria for
disbursement of the funds in place.
19.3.3 eGovernment
An eGovernment Masterplan has been put in place to guide eGovernment implementation over the
next five years.
During the 2014 /2015 Financial Year the following activities were undertaken:
NITA-U undertook consolidation of Government hardware and software licenses with the
objective of accelerating delivery of e-government services through reduced costs of licenses. A
Master Business Services Agreement was signed with Microsoft and negotiations with Oracles
are at an advanced stage.
An Information Access Centre (IAC) was set up in conjunction with the Government of Korea.
The centre aims to enhance citizen participation and engagement in public policy and
governance;
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Technical support was provided towards the establishment of a Government Citizen Interaction
Centre (GCIC) championed by Office of the President; to Uganda Investment Authority to
establish a One Stop Centre (OSC) and to establish over 20 eGOvernment systems including
the integration of national systems and databases, Electronic Single Window, eProcurement,
eVisa and standardisation of Government websites.
19.3.3.1 National backbone infrastructure and e-government project
The Government of Uganda through the Ministry of Information Communication Technology is
spearheading the development of the National Data Transmission Backbone Infrastructure (NBI)
and the Electronic Government Infrastructure (EGI). This US$ 100 million project implemented by
NITA-U is a public private partnership designed to complement private sector initiatives to relieve
the acute shortage of bandwidth in three phases.
The NBI is intended to ensure that high bandwidth data connection is available in all major towns of
Uganda at reasonable rates. The EGI is designed to reduce the cost of doing business in
government, improving communication between government agencies and reducing the need for
officials to commute for meetings and thus increasing efficiency.
Phases I and II of The NBI have been completed and consists of the following:
Laying of 1536.39Km of Optical Fibre Cable across the country to build the National Data
Transmission Backbone;
Connection of NBI to the borders of Southern Sudan (Elegu) and Kenya (Malaba and Busia)
thereby linking the country to other regional backbone infrastructure;
Expansion of the Government Metropolitan Area Network into a Wide Area Network covering
the towns of Kampala, Entebbe, Bombo, Mukono, Jinja, Busia, Tororo, Malaba, Kumi, Mbale,
Soroti, Lira, Gulu, Masindi, Nakasongola, Luwero, Mbarara, Kasese, Fort Portal and Kyenjojo.
The EGI component consists of the e-Government Infrastructure installed in 27 main line
Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and the Primary Data Center. This
infrastructure is supporting the Integrated Financial Management System (IFMS), Video
Conferencing Services, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and the Secure Messaging and
Collaboration Platform (SMCS). The SMCS platform has been successfully piloted in three sites
namely: State House, Ministry of ICT and NITA – U. Other MDAs will follow the roll out of these pilot
sites through the IT Rationalisation Program.
Achievements to date include:
1. Delivery and installation of communication equipment to the 27 Ministries and Departments that
form the E-Government network was been completed;
2. Videoconferencing services have been deployed to 27 Ministries and Departments;
3. Backup communication equipment for each of the EGI sites have been delivered and installed;
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4. VoIP service is currently under test and three (3) pilot sites; NITA-U, Ministry of Foreign Affair
and Ministry of Internal Affairs have been identified for the deployment of the service.
5. NITA-U has realigned the National Backbone Infrastructure Program to confirm quality of the
Optic fibre cable and all installations done in Phase I and the subsequent Phases to ensure
reliability in providing services to the citizens.
6. A detailed quality assurance process has been developed to ensure quality of Phase I and
Phase II of the NBI/EGI Project.
The NBI Phase III will connect Kabale, Katuna, Malaba, Masaka and Mutukula. Phase III will also
provide an alternative route to the undersea cables at Mutukula through mainland Tanzania to the
East African Submarine cables and will also connect Uganda to the Rwandan border. All other
districts will be reached using the last-mile connectivity programme using other connectivity
technologies such as WiMax.
The Parliament of Uganda has approved the implementation of Phase IV to facilitate the connection
of Sironko, Kapchorwa, Nakapiripirt, Moroto, Kotido, Kitgum, Adjumani, Moyo, Yumbe, Arua, Nebbi
and Pakwach towns. Since funding for Phase IV is not covered under the concessional loan from
the People’s Republic of China, the Government of Uganda will source the necessary funding.
During the 2014/2015 Financial Year, the following activities were undertaken:
The National Backbone infrastructure (NBI) was extended to connect 45 sites with Kampala and
Entebbe. This has enabled access of high speed internet at affordable costs through bulk
procurement.
Seven Public Universities (Gulu University, Mbarara University, Kyambogo University, Busitema
University, Makerere University Business School and Uganda Management Institute) have been
connected to the NBI to enable access to high speed internet connectivity and facilitate e-
learning and research.
Five Ministries, Departments and Agencies (URA, MFPED, FIA and MOICT, State House) are
now hosted in the NITA-U Data Centre
Distribution infrastructure for digital TV Broadcasting was installed for the greater Kampala area.
The loan for Phase III of the National Backbone Infrastructure Project was approved by Exim
bank in March 2015.
The Business Process Outsourcing incubation centre was officially launched and employs 323
youth.
Funding sources: Uganda government and implement by the Uganda Ministry of ICT
Geographic scope and time frame: National; ongoing.
19.3.3.2 Migration from analogue to digital broadcasting project
This project aimed to provide choice to consumers with different service providers through
- Interoperability of systems
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- Ensuring the presence of a competitive market
- Efficient use of spectrum
The Digital Broadcasting Migration Policy envisaged the delivery of quality education, health and
small, medium and micro enterprises, the opportunity for developing new skills and the creation of
new jobs, and new investment opportunities. The key benefit of digital broadcasting is that it
enables the utilization of the scarce national radio frequency spectrum far more efficiently than
analogue technologies.
UCC fulfilled the international switch off of Analogue TV Transmission on 17 June 2015. Digital
cover had been in place for 18 months in the greater Kampala area and a phased switch off of the
analogue signal was undertaken in other areas during July and August 2015.
Funding sources: Chinese government and implementation by the Uganda Ministry of ICT
Geographic scope and time frame: National; completed.
19.3.3.3 Voter registration- Electro Commission Uganda project
This project focused on enhance transparency, accountability in the election management process,
increase voter confidence in the electoral process in the 2010 general elections. This project was
supported by the International foundation for Electoral systems and USAID. The purpose was to
support the voter registration process and enhance the credibility of the voter registers by
strengthening access to the register and providing it online. USAID, the Electoral Commission, and
the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) also cooperated to develop an SMS text
messaging system to facilitate any voter with a cell phone to verify voter registration status and
polling station assignments via text
Organization(s)/funding sources: The registry is part of the U.S. government's ongoing support of
democracy in Uganda and was funded through a US$600,000 USAID grant to IFES to work with the
Electoral Commission to develop the secure registry site.
Geographic scope and time frame: National
19.3.3.4 National Identity Cards project
The National Security Information System (NSIS) project was focused on implementing a biometric
and central data management and identity card registration. It aimed to help government to have
easy identification of Ugandans on the government pay roll, social security, police and army and
within the east African community. All eligible Ugandan citizens of voting age (18 years and above)
been registered during 2015 and national identification cards and unique National Identification
Number (NIN) are being issued.
Organization(s)/funding sources: Uganda Government, Implementation overseen by Uganda
Ministry of ICT
Geographic scope and time frame: National
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19.3.3.5 ICT4Democracy in East Africa
The ICT4Democracy in East Africa project (June 2011 - July 2013) was based on leveraging the
potential of ICT to increase citizens’ participation in decision-making processes, thus strengthening
democratisation. Launched in June 2011, the ICT4Democracy Network in East Africa consists of 7
partners in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania (Kenya Human Rights Commission, iHubResearch-
Kenya, Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance-Tanzania, Toro Development
Network-Uganda, Women of Uganda Network, Transparency International – Uganda and The
Collaboration on International ICT Policy in East and Southern Africa (CIPESA)). The Network
initially received seed funding from the Swedish Programme for ICT in Developing Regions (Spider).
It is a network of organisations collaboratively leveraging on Information and Communication
Technology (ICT) to enhance communication and the right to freedom of expression, as well as the
right to seek, receive and impart information to enhance civic empowerment and improve
governance.
During late 2013, the network was successful in receiving a Grant of SEK 8.4 million from SIDA
under the Swedish Government's Special Initiative for Democratisation and Freedom of Expression.
Organization(s)/funding sources: SPIDER / SIDA
Geographic scope and time frame: Regional - Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania
19.3.4 Technology-enhanced Learning
A number of projects were initiated over the past decade to support the education system including
the Connect-ED project to put computers and Internet Points of Presence in Teacher colleges
(commenced in 2000 with support from USAID); CurriculumNet Project207 to prepare an ICT-based
curriculum materials in mathematics and geography for primary schools and mathematics and
science for secondary schools (commenced 2001 with support from IDRC); VSAT project and
SchoolNet Uganda project; Content Development project at National Teacher Colleges
(commenced in 2005 with support from IICD); Connecting Classrooms project (2006 - 2007
supported by British Council); UConnect208 supporting connectivity and training in schools
(commenced activities in 1995) and iNetwork209 Project (commenced in 2002 with support from
IICD). More recent projects are described below.
19.3.4.1 Improving Learning Outcomes through ICT
The "Improving Learning Outcomes through ICT" project ran from December 2011 to 31 December
2014. It is focused on improving learning outcomes for girls in particular in primary schools in the
Apac District of Uganda through access to ICT. It aimed to train teachers and school administrators
in learner centered teaching and learning methodologies, facilitate access to up to date teaching
207 http://www.idrc.ca/EN/Resources/Publications/Pages/ArticleDetails.aspx?PublicationID=716 208 www.uconnect.org/ 209 www.i-network.or.ug/
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and learning materials, build capacity of teachers, facilitate networking between schools and provide
life skills to pupils for improved self confidence. The target group was 100 primary school pupils and
40 primary school teachers.
Organization(s)/funding sources: Partners included: Connect4Change, Edukans, IICD
(Netherlands) and Education Local Expertise Centre Uganda, FAWEU and I-Network (Uganda).
Funded through Grant of €36,000 from Edukans, Netherlands.
Geographic scope and time frame: Apac District of Uganda, December 2011 - December 2014.
19.3.4.2 ITELE for ICT (Improving Literacy and Numeracy in Primary Education through ICT)
IICD ran the "ITELE for ICT" project from December 2011 to 31 December 2014. It was focused on
improving literacy and numeracy in primary education in the Serere District in Eastern Uganda
through the integration of ICT in teaching and learning processes. The projects aimed to train 20
teachers in 8 targeted primary schools and then 10 teachers per school by 2014 to develop
Information Communication based teaching content, lesson planning and scheming and support
pupils to design, develop and disseminate IEC materials that address community needs and
concerns.
Organization(s)/funding sources: Partners included: Connect4Change, Edukans, IICD
(Netherlands) and Education Local Expertise Centre Uganda, HNU and I-Network (Uganda).
Funded through Grant of €39,568 from Edukans, Netherlands.
Geographic scope and time frame: Serere District in Eastern Uganda, December 2011 -
December 2014.
19.3.4.3 Helping teachers use ICT for teaching
IICD launched the "Helping teachers use ICT for teaching" project in December 2010. It focused on
training teachers and sensitising Head Teachers in Western Uganda and West Nile of the
importance of using ICT for Education and for school management. It aimed to train 400 teachers
and senior staff on how to use computers to improve classroom instruction, teaching materials and
school administration in 13 schools.
Organization(s)/funding sources: Partners included Connect4Change, CharITy, IICD
(Netherlands), Close the Gap (Belgium) and Computers for Schools Uganda (CFSU), I-Network
(Uganda). Funding of €110,820 from CFSU (€18,203), IICD (€35,117), Close the Gap (€47,500)
and CharITy (€10,000)
Geographic scope and time frame: Western Uganda and West Nile, December 2010 - 01
December 2015
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19.3.5 eHealth
19.3.5.1 Improving health care delivery through continuing medical education for rural health workers
This project is focused on improving health care delivery through continuing medical education
(CME) for rural health workers by using ICTs and multimedia. The major focus is on gathering and
repackaging high-quality health information for dissemination through ICTs. Training in the use of
basic ICTs is provided.
Organisation(s)/funding sources: Co-sponsored by Cordaid and IICD and implemented by
Uganda Martyrs University, Faculty of Health Sciences, and the three hospitals of Itojo in Ntungamo
district, Nkozi in Mpigi district and Mutolere in Kisoro district
Geographic scope and time frame: District-based; ongoing.
19.3.5.2 ICT Maintenance Facilities for rural technical colleges
ICT maintenance facilities for rural Uganda have been established at five technical colleges. An ICT
maintenance facility will be set up at each college to provide technical support and to introduce a
new course called ICT Installation and Maintenance to train technicians.
Organisation(s)/funding sources: The Uganda Institute of Information and Communications
Technology, established by Uganda Communications Commission, manages the project with the
support of the International Institute for Communication and Development (IICD).
Geographic scope and time frame: The five UTCs are located in or near upcountry towns and are
geographically well distributed throughout the country. Launched in 2005; ongoing.
19.3.5.3 Health Child / STAR Parent
The STAR Parent project built on past projects implemented by Health Child to improve maternal
and child health conditions in Uganda. It ran from October 2012 until 30 September 2015. ICT was
adopted to complement the project activities, which focus on improving pregnancy outcomes,
neonatal and child survival. The project was implemented in close partnership with Village Health
Teams, Local leaders, health centre, District Health Office and Ministry of Health.
Organisation(s)/funding sources: Partners included: Connect4Change, Cordaid, IICD
(Netherlands) and Health Child and I-Network (Uganda). Funded through Grant of €166,395 from
IICD (€64,725) and Cordaid (€101,670).
Geographic scope and time frame: Jinja, Lira and Apac districts in Uganda, October 2012 to 30
September 2015
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19.3.5.4 e-Network
Makerere University Faculty of Computing and Information Technology won an Africa Union (AU)
bid to create an e-network that will provide connectivity for Eastern and Central African countries to
a pan-African network through fibre optics and wireless links. This will enable the sharing of
resources such as BlackBoard digital learning software, backups, and elearning courses. The
faculty has a department that trains staff in e-learning and supports elearning in the whole of the
university.
Organisation(s)/funding sources: Funding was provided by the Government of India through the
AU. Makerere was the lead university serving Comoros, Djibouti, Eriteria, Ethiopia, Kenya,
Madagascar, Mauritius, Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Geographic scope and time frame: Eastern and central African regions; project announced in July
2006.
19.3.5.5 Electronic Rural Health Information project: Feasibility and Acceptability of e-Card Maternal-Child Health Passport in Rural Community
Towards the end of 2010, the Ministry of Health released a Mother-Child Health Passport (MCH
HP). The Mother-Child Health Passport is an initiative to improve maternal and child health in
Uganda. It has already been started in a number of African countries including Malawi, Benin,
Tanzania and Kenya. It replaces and combines the antenatal and child health cards. This Mother-
Child Health Passport is a medical document that records pertinent facts, findings, and observations
about an individual child's health history including natal history, past and present illnesses, tests,
treatments and outcomes. It will also chronologically document the care of the mother during
pregnancy and the child after delivery, thus offering an important element contributing to high-
quality care. As in the rest of Africa, it is paper based and therefore will have the inherent problems
associated with manual paper based medical documentation systems. To ameliorate these
problems, the paper system should be supplemented by an electronic system. This will revolutionise
the health care system and efforts need to be made to enable the health system proceed from
manual or semi-automatic data processing to a new method of entering, storage, and searching and
protecting data using an affordable and safe electronic system.
This will also improve efficiency in data for health care and administration such health insurance
accounts and other health surveys.
Organisation(s)/funding sources: Uganda Government in collaboration with ICTs for African Rural
Development (ICTARD), Uganda Martyrs University, Nkozi. Department of Computer Science and
Information Systems (CSIS)
Geographic scope and time frame: National
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19.3.5.6 Malaria Diagnostic Systems project
The overall objective of the malaria diagnostic systems project is to design and implement an easy
to use computerized system that has the capabilities to perform accurate diagnosis of malaria,
recommend appropriate treatment for malaria, capture and update malaria patient data in real time,
provide a platform for sharing data among health establishments, streamline the reporting to the
ministry of health and also generate relevant patients and dug management reports
Organisation(s)/funding sources: Uganda Government
Geographic scope and time frame: National
19.3.6 eCommerce
19.3.6.1 District Business Information Centers
This project aims to address the needs of the community demand driven ICT based services. Since
its launch in 2008, the District Business Information Centers (DBIC) project has established DBICS
in the Districts of Kamwenge, Lira, Busia, Mityana, Iganga, Rukungiri, Tororo, Kitgum, Rakai, Hoima
and Amuru.
Special Training was provided to the initial DBICS Managers to improve their Operations in 2011
and DBICS Managers were trained to provide E-Tax services in their Districts through collaboration
with the E-Tax Department in Uganda Revenue Authority. NITA-U has partnered with the United
Nations International Development Organization (UNIDO) to further improve the delivery of services
in the existing DBICS centres.
Following the ICT Parliamentary Committee Directive to harmonize all DBICs similar projects under
UCC, Posta-Uganda and NITA-U, an MOU with Posta-Uganda has been developed to guide
onward deployments of DBICS. The Turn Key solution contract was signed in November 2011with
United Engineering Services to deliver DBICS in Amuru, Hoima and Rakai. Installation of the DBICS
in Rakai and Hoima was completed by March 2012 after the MOU with Posta-Uganda has been
signed. The Installation for Amuru was completed by 24th February 2012.
Organization and funding sources: UNIDO with funding from the Austrian Development Agency
(ADA) and in close cooperation with local public and private sector representatives has developed a
network of business information centers (BIC) in 8 districts, to see how they can support them in
terms of ICT access. These include Arua, Gulu, Jinja, Kabale, Masaka, Masindi, mbale and Soroti
Geographic scope and time frame: 8 districts’ initially but extending to another 8 districts in
Uganda, 6 to be funded by government (Ministry of ICT) and 2 to be funded by UNIDO. The project
is National; ongoing
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19.3.6.2 Reflect ICT Resource Centre
The Reflect ICT resource centre has been equipped with computers (Internet connected), printers,
digital camera and video, generator, UPS, public address system, World Space radio, and solar-
operated radios, along with other office equipment including a photocopier. The aim is to facilitate
access to agricultural, health, and commercial information based on needs that the 10 communities
identified.
Organization(s)/funding sources: DIFD, and community contributions.
Geographic scope and time frame: The project is located in Bukuuku sub-county in Kabarole
district, western Uganda.
19.3.6.3 Village Phone Project
The Village Phone Project210 provides micro loans to eight local businesses to enable establishing a
community phone service. Testing of additional technologies will be done.
Organization(s)/funding sources: Grameen Foundation in partnership with MTN Uganda
Geographic scope and time frame: Started in 2003 in selected communities; ongoing.
19.3.7 ICT for Rural Development
19.3.7.1 Energy for Rural Transformation (ERT) Project
The Second Energy for Rural Transformation (ERT II) Project financed by the World Bank is a long-
term project aligned with the Rural Communications Development Fund (RCDF) mandate by
extending the country's electricity supply to rural areas. The project has three components: i)
construction of the rural energy infrastructure, ii) financing internet broadband extension to rural
areas and iii) financing solar PV energy packages for rural schools, health clinics and water
facilities.
Organization(s)/funding sources The World Bank funding of US$75 million. Implementation
overseen by Office of Rural Communications Development Fund (RCDF).
Geographic scope and time frame: National
19.3.7.2 Adaptive Bandwidth Management in Cooperative Wireless Networks: Affordable and equitable access to the Internet
In 2006, the Community Wireless Resource Centre211 (CWRC), which was established under the
Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Makerere University, setup local
wireless networks at three sites – Nabweru Telecentre, Lira Canadian Physicans for Aid and Relief
(CPAR) telecentre and Kabale/Kachwekano Telecentres. The wireless networks were established
210 http://www.grameenfoundation.org/where-we-work/sub-saharan-africa 211 http://cwrc.it46.se/
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with technical support from IT+46, a Swedish ICT organisation, and with financial support from the
International Development Research Centre (IDRC) in the amount of US$ 89,866. The general
objective of the CWRC is to provide or enhance sustainable Internet connectivity infrastructure,
particularly in rural or under served areas in Uganda, by means of wireless technology. The specific
objectives are to (1) implement and support the maintenance of community wireless networks,
initially targeting the IDRC-funded Telecentres by establishing a Community Wireless Resource
Center in the Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Technology, at Makerere University;
(2) build capacity, among students at the Electrical Engineering department and the technical staff
at the Telecentres, in the design, installation and maintenance of community wireless networks
including bandwidth management and efficient traffic provisioning; (3) undertake research to assess
the technical feasibility and economic business/partnership models of community wireless networks;
and (4) document and share the results widely.
Organization(s)/funding sources: Uganda Government under the MSI World Bank project
19.3.7.3 NUFFIC ICT212 projects
The “Building a Sustainable ICT Training Capacity in the Public Universities in Uganda” NUFFIC
One project 2003 – 2008 (€4 million) was very successful in boosting the ICT capacity of staff and
students in the four Public Universities in Uganda. The project supported curriculum development
and implementation, development of research capacity and advise in the establishment of a Centre
of Excellence for ICT Training and Research at Makerere University, ICT infrastructure
development, collaborations among the Public Universities, gender policy, ICT Policy and Master
Plans leveraging expertise from the Netherlands.
Based on the success of this project, spin off projects were launched including: NPT project on
‘Strengthening ICT Training and Research Capacity in the Four Public Universities in Uganda’; and
NPT Project on ‘Strengthening the Institutional Capacity of Uganda’s Technical Colleges. All the
project activities and objectives were completed including 5 new MSc and 5 PhD graduates.
In 2008 CIT (Makerere University) together with the Southern Faculty of Computing & Information
Technology and IT, the Institute of Computer Science at Mbarara University of Science and
Technology, the Departments of Computer Science at Kyambogo and Gulu Universities
collaborated to develop, implement and manage relevant educational and research programs for
poverty alleviation, rural and economic development. This project (€5.7 million, 2008 - 2011)
resulted in Makerere University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Gulu University
and Kyambogo University partnering with University of Groningen, Radboud University Nijmegen
(RUN) and Eindhoven University of Technology (TUE) to support University staff and students in the
Ugandan institutions and ICT Policy makers.
212 http://sida.mak.ac.ug/?p=919
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19.3.8 Other ICT Initiatives
19.3.8.1 Huawei Initiative to address the challenges for local content
As part of an ICT partnership between Makerere University and Huawei to boost ICT in the
university, Huawei sent 10 students and tutors for a one week specialized training in ICT at the
Huawei Training Center in Nairobi in late June 2012. The programme included WCDMARAN
System Overview, LTE Systems Overview and Transport Solution Training, IP Network
Technologies and service Training and Mobile SoftSwitch Fundamental Training.
19.3.8.2 Microsoft Innovation Centre
In November 2011 the Innovation Centre (CIT), College of Computing and Information Science,
Makerere University was re-launched by United Nations Industrial Development Organization
(UNIDO) and Microsoft as the first Microsoft Innovation Centre in Uganda, Initially funded for two
years by the Rockefeller Foundation. Hosted at the College of Computing and Information Sciences
at Makerere University, the Centre is an extension of the global Microsoft Innovation network and is
designed to promote the development of innovation and growth of the Ugandan software economy.
The Innovation Centre provides access to PCs, software, desk space and mentoring, and supports
both final year students, recent graduates, staff and external entrepreneurs. The facility focuses on
skills development and aims to educate local students to help improve their professional IT
knowledge and gain real project experience before graduating. In collaboration with the Ugandan
Government, National Information Technology Authority Uganda (NITA-U) and Makerere University,
the Centre also helps developers and IT professionals learn about the latest technologies, stimulate
technology innovation and drive the local software economy to boost national competitiveness. It
provides assistance and resources to small and medium sized enterprises to create new and
innovative products and services, bring those products to the market and increase their business
competitiveness.
19.4 National ICT Research Capacity and Priorities for Cooperation
19.4.1 National Priorities
The Ministry of ICT developed a five year sector Strategic and Investment Plan (ICT SIP) 2015/16 -
2019/20 to guide the systematic deployment of ICT for development and service delivery in line with
the Uganda Vision 2040 and the National Development Plan (NDP) 2015/16-2019/20. The Vision of
the ICT SIP is “A knowledge-based Uganda enabled by a Vibrant ICT sector” and the mission is “to
provide leadership and enabling environment for promotion of ICT as an industry, and enabler for
transforming Uganda into a knowledge-based society”. Thematic areas include: ICT Governance;
ICT Infrastructure; Human Capital Development and Planning; Information Security; Research,
Innovation and Development; ICT Health, Safety and Environment; Cross cutting areas; Promotion
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of eServices and Local Content; eGovernment; ICT Industry promotion in target markets and
Promoation and Coordination of ICT in other sectors.
National ICT Research Priorities include:
Health & eHealth: Diagnostics; Epidemiological survey; Health care; Telemedicine; Service
delivery. Institutions involved include: Ministry of Health, Makerere University, Mbarara
University and Gulu University
Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture: Climate Change; Agroforestry; Marketing;
Agribusiness. Institutions involved include: Ministry of Agriculture, Makerere University, Gulu
University and USAID.
Secure clean and efficient energy. Institutions involved include: Ministry of Education and GIZ.
Future Internet: Networks, Software Services, Wireless and mobile Applications. Institutions
involved include: Makerere University
Technology-enhanced Learning
eGovernment
Digital Content, Digital Libraries and Geographic Information Systems
19.4.2 National Research Capacity
The following universities and research centres in Uganda are undertaking ICT-related initiatives:
Makerere University
Departments include: Faculty of ICT213 (Computer Science, Information Technology,
Information Sciences), Business School214, East African School of Library and Information
Science215
Research areas include: Mobile Applications, ICT for Governance and Policy modelling,
eInfrastructures, Information Systems, Networks, ICT for Sustainable Development,
Software Engineering
Kyambogo University216
Departments include: Department of Computer Science; Department of Mathematics;
Department of Physics;
Research areas include: Technology-enhanced Learning, Inclusive Society
Mbarara University of Science & Technology217
Departments include: Faculty of Science; Institute of Computer Science
213 http://cit.mak.ac.ug/ 214 http://www.mubs.ac.ug 215 http://easlis.mak.ac.ug/ 216 http://www.kyu.ac.ug 217 http://www.must.ac.ug
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Research areas include: Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Services,
Information Technology, Software incubation
Uganda Christian University (UCU) 218
Departments include: Faculty of Science & Technology - Departments of Computing,
Environmental Science and Health Science
Gulu University219
Departments include: Computer Science, Library and Information Services, Biosystems
Engineering
Research areas include: eGovernance, eInclusion, eHealth, Technology-enhanced Learning,
Agriculture, Environment
Kampala International University220
Departments include: Computer Science - Information Technology and Systems, Electrical
and Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Biological and Environmental Sciences
Uganda Martyrs University221
Research areas include: Technology-enhanced Learning
Bugema University
Departments include: Computing and Technology
Research areas include: eHealth, GIS, Engineering, eEducation; Mobile Communications;
eAgriculture
19.4.3 ICT-39 Priority Themes
Based on consultation with stakeholders the following thematic areas are considered to be
important in the context of the ICT-39 Call:
Thematic Areas Topics Partners include
eHealth Health diagnosis and Surveillance; Telemedicine and remote diagnosis; Epidemiology: Disease Surveillance and Early Warning systems; Monitoring of non-communicable diseases (hypertension, diabetes etc)
Makerere University; Mbarara University of Science and Technology; Gulu University
eAgriculture Commodity Supply Chain, Extension services, Early Warning systems
Mbarara University of Science and Technology; Makerere University; Gulu University
218 http://www.ucu.ac.ug/ucunew/ 219 http://www.gu.ac.ug 220 http://www.kiu.ac.ug 221 http://www.umu.ac.ug/
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Technology-enhanced Learning
Distance learning, content development Makerere University; Kyambogo University; Ndejje University;
Bugema University; Mbarara University of Science and Technology
Environment Biomass Energy; Climate change mitigation; Renewable Energy
Makerere University
19.4.4 Mapping to H2020 Themes
The initial mapping to Horizon 2020 Research areas is summarised below
Horizon 2020 Industrial Leadership Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Components and Systems Makerere University (Department of Electrical Engineering)
Uganda Technology Management University: Smart Embedded Components
Advanced Computing Makerere University
Mbarara University of Science and Technology
Future Internet Makerere University
Content Technologies & Information Management
Makerere University
Gulu University: Technology-enhanced Learning
Uganda Martyrs University: Technology-enhanced Learning
Robotics Makerere University (Faculty of Engineering): Robotics
Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges Institution, Relevant Dept and Research area
Health Makerere University (School of Public Health): Epidemiology, Diagnostics, Telemedicine
Mbarara University of Science and Technology: Epidemiology
Gulu University (Faculty of Medicine): Diagnostics, infectious diseases, Epidemiology
Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture Makerere University (College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences): Sustainable Agriculture, Food Security, Agri-business, Crop breeding, biotech, bioinfomatics
Energy Makerere University (College of Computer and Information Technology, Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering)
Inclusive, Innovative and Reflective Makerere University (College of Computer and
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Societies Information Technology): eInclusion
Secure Societies Makerere University (College of Computer and Information Technology): Information Security
Level of Research Maturity
Uganda has a strong research base and good experience in collaborative research having
participated in more than 41 projects and securing over € 7.7 million in research funding under
FP7. During the first year of Horizon 2020, 5 projects have been secured. There is research
capacity in the areas of ICT, Environment, Health, Technology-enhanced Learning, Food Security
and Agriculture.
Uganda has benefited significantly from participation in the IST-Africa Initiative through capacity
building, training workshops, establishing and training of National Contact Points, workshops that
support knowledge exchange and collaboration at national level, support for national researchers to
publish research papers and present research results at international scientific conferences as well
as access to a network of policy makers and research institutions across Africa and Europe.
ICT research funding at national level is currently complicated and insufficient mainly because of its
silo-based nature which is at odds with the dynamic, interdisciplinary and cross-fertilization nature of
modern ICT related innovations.